Composer Yoo Jae-hwan Cleared of Fraud Charges

Yoo Jae-hwan (유재환), a composer and singer who faced allegations of fraud regarding composition fees, has been cleared of all charges. Following the decision, he expressed, "I don't feel entirely good about it. I feel a sense of humility, realizing that the misunderstandings have been resolved."

On January 10, the Gangseo Police Station in Seoul announced that they would not pursue charges against Yoo, citing insufficient evidence after he was collectively sued by 23 individuals for fraud.

The plaintiffs claimed that Yoo received over 55 million won from them under the pretense of composing music, despite lacking the intention or ability to do so. However, the police concluded that there was not enough evidence to support the claims that Yoo had no intention or capability to produce music.

In an interview after the decision, Yoo shared his feelings, stating, "I don't feel entirely good about it. I just feel a sense of humility, realizing that the misunderstandings have been resolved. I started this with the intention of doing good, and it’s disappointing that it escalated into misunderstandings. It has been a very difficult time, and I worked hard, so it’s unfortunate that it ended up this way."

Yoo clarified, "I did not receive composition fees. I offered songs that are like my children without charging for composition or arrangement fees, only taking production costs with good intentions. Initially, I thought 1.3 million won would be sufficient to create the songs. However, as the project progressed, session fees increased, and production costs rose to 1.5 million, then 1.8 million, and eventually 2 million won. I regret starting with only 1.3 million won without anticipating the rising costs."

Last June, Yoo was embroiled in controversy over the alleged fraud and sexual harassment claims. Accusations surfaced that he solicited money from aspiring singers under the guise of offering free composition services, only to disappear afterward. Additionally, he faced allegations of introducing his fiancée as a 'half-sister' while pursuing other women.

Yoo has since expressed remorse and a commitment to repay those affected, although he firmly denied the sexual harassment allegations, stating, "That is absolutely not true."

In June, he revealed that he lost approximately 1 billion won in cryptocurrency investments, sharing this on the YouTube channel 'Caracula Media.' He mentioned that this occurred around 2021 and expressed his frustration with the narrative that he started his project due to financial ruin from cryptocurrency.

Regarding the fraud allegations, he likened the situation to buying a soda and then asking for a refund after drinking it, explaining that many felt misled. However, when confronted about providing ballads instead of the requested rock music, he admitted, "That was my mistake."

Yoo also shared a concerning post on social media that suggested suicidal thoughts, leading to a hospitalization. His mother recounted a conversation with him shortly before his hospitalization, expressing her concern and urging him to stay strong despite the challenges. Tragically, his mother passed away in August.

Currently, Yoo revealed that he has been unable to work and is in a state of seclusion, struggling emotionally after his mother's death just four months ago. He admitted to having attempted extreme measures and spent time in a psychiatric ward. He described the past months as incredibly challenging, facing financial difficulties and declaring bankruptcy. Despite this, he expressed a desire to return to music, stating, "Having been in music, I feel I should repay through music, so I am considering returning to the keyboard, even though it’s difficult."

The public is now watching to see if Yoo can make a comeback in his career.