SHINee's Key Steps Down from All Broadcasts After Acknowledging 'Illegal Medical Practices'... SM Apologizes for 'Ignorance'

Key, a member of the idol group SHINee, officially acknowledged that he received home treatment from the so-called 'Injection Aunt' who is embroiled in the illegal medical practice controversy. Key has decided to step down from all broadcast programs he is currently appearing in, taking responsibility for the controversy.

⬦ "Met at the hospital and mistook her for a doctor... Called to my home for treatment" SM Clarifies

The agency SM Entertainment stated in an official statement on the 17th, "Key first learned about Ms. Lee (the Injection Aunt) as a doctor when he visited a hospital located in Gangnam, introduced by an acquaintance," and added, "He continued to receive treatment at that hospital, and recently, due to difficulties visiting the hospital, he received treatment at home a few times."

SM further stated, "Key believed Ms. Lee was a doctor, and he did not recognize that receiving treatment at home would be problematic, as the other party did not mention anything unusual."

The controversy arose when photos of Key's pet dog were posted on Ms. Lee's social media. Key conducted a solo tour in Los Angeles, Oakland, and Chicago this month, but he did not immediately address the allegations, raising concerns among fans.

Key was absent from the scheduled studio recording of MBC 〈I Live Alone〉 on the 8th due to his overseas tour schedule.

⬦ 〈I Live Alone〉·〈Amazing Saturday〉 Exit in Succession... Panic in the Broadcasting Industry

SM stated, "It was difficult to make a prompt statement due to the need for discussions with various stakeholders regarding the overseas tour schedule and activities," and added, "We sincerely apologize for this matter."

They continued, "Key recently learned through the controversy surrounding Ms. Lee's medical license that she is not a doctor, and he is currently in a very confused state," and stated, "He deeply reflects on his ignorance and has decided to step down from all ongoing schedules and programs, recognizing the seriousness of the matter."

Key has been a fixed cast member on tvN 〈Amazing Saturday〉 and MBC 〈I Live Alone〉.

Following broadcaster Park Na-rae, who was at the center of the initial allegations and suspended her broadcasting activities, Key's decision to exit the program has led to the so-called 'Injection Aunt Illegal Medical Practices' controversy spreading throughout the entertainment industry.

SM stated, "Once again, we sincerely apologize to fans and all stakeholders for causing concern."

Meanwhile, this incident has sparked social discussions about the use of medical services in the entertainment industry, and it is reported that investigations by relevant authorities are underway.