Canadian-Korean Singer JK Kim Dong-wook Faces Political Activity Allegations

JK Kim Dong-wook (본명 존 킴), a Canadian-Korean singer, has come under scrutiny for supporting President Yoon Suk-yeol, who is facing charges of insurrection. On January 17, a netizen revealed plans to file a complaint against him for allegedly violating laws prohibiting foreign political activities in South Korea.

The individual, identified as A, shared a post on social media stating, "JK Kim Dong-wook is set to be reported for violating foreign political activity restrictions. I used to enjoy his music, but I deleted everything last year." The post included a photo of the complaint against him.

According to the complaint, A claims that "JK Kim Dong-wook is confirmed to be a foreign national who renounced his South Korean citizenship to obtain Canadian nationality. On January 3, 2024, he held a large rally near the presidential residence and posted about it on social media, along with other political statements." A further asserted that under Article 17 of the Immigration Control Act, foreigners residing in South Korea are prohibited from engaging in political activities, and violations can lead to penalties.

Previously, JK Kim Dong-wook has consistently expressed his opposition to the impeachment and arrest of President Yoon Suk-yeol, especially following the approval of the impeachment motion after the declaration of a state of emergency. Earlier this month, he posted on his personal social media, "Protecting the president is the way to protect the country! Who is the Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission?"

On January 5, he commented, "Approval ratings surpassing 40%! This is not a sign from heaven but the wishes of those yearning for liberal democracy," and today, he shared a poll showing high approval ratings for President Yoon, stating, "Public opinion reflects the will of the Korean people. Those lawmakers who go against it must be held accountable. The Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission must remember that it is not about disbanding but about legal accountability."

As JK Kim Dong-wook continues to make bold political statements, the emergence of a complaint against him for violating foreign political activity laws has garnered significant attention. Many are now speculating whether he will cease his social media activities in light of this complaint.

Born in Seoul in 1975, JK Kim Dong-wook immigrated to Canada with his family in 1992, acquiring Canadian citizenship. He remains active in South Korea but is recognized as a Korean-Canadian citizen exempt from military service.