Former The Boyz member Jo Hakhyeon (26) has been reported to the police on charges of prostitution.
On the 19th, a complaint was submitted to the National Police Agency, stating, "Please investigate allegations of Jo Hakhyeon's overseas prostitution and the involvement of agency officials." The complainant officially submitted the complaint through the Gangnam Police Station in Seoul, characterizing the incident as "a structural issue in the entertainment industry beyond a simple privacy controversy."
The complainant noted, "According to reports, Jo Hakhyeon engaged in prostitution during his stay in Japan and has admitted to paying for sexual services, which constitutes a violation of the Act on the Punishment of Prostitution and Related Acts." The complainant emphasized that the investigation should extend to whether any former producers from the agency were also excluded from work due to prostitution-related issues. Direct involvement, complicity, or tolerance should also be investigated.
In addition, the complainant stated, "This issue cannot be minimized as an individual's deviation, and a broader investigation is needed to determine whether entertainers, agency staff, freelance producers, and intermediaries in Japan were organized in their involvement." The complainant added, "It is a matter of social responsibility that idols, who should convey dreams and hopes to youth, are embroiled in prostitution."
Previously, Jo Hakhyeon was embroiled in controversy following reports that he had socialized with adult video (AV) actress Asuka Kirara (37) in Japan. Subsequently, some media reported claims that they engaged in sexual relations beyond mere physical contact and that payments were exchanged. On the 16th, The Boyz's agency, Hypemoon, announced Jo Hakhyeon's departure from the team and the termination of his exclusive contract.
As the controversy intensified, Jo Hakhyeon posted a handwritten apology on social media. He stated, "I did indeed join a drinking party with acquaintances, but I have never engaged in prostitution or any illegal acts mentioned in articles or rumors."
Meanwhile, Jo Hakhyeon rose to fame through Mnet's 'Produce 101 Season 2' in 2017 and left the team after the activities for The Boyz's third studio album, 'Unexpected.'
[Photo] OSEN DB
[OSEN]