Koala Apologizes for Assaulting Jessi's Fan After Nine Months
Rapper Koala (36, real name Heo Jae-won) has issued a public apology regarding allegations of assaulting a fan of singer Jessi (36). This comes nine months after the incident occurred. On June 4, Koala took to his Instagram to express his regret for the delay in addressing the situation, stating, "I apologize for taking so long to speak out. I wanted to say something for a long time, but I thought it was right to wait until everything was legally resolved and properly handled." In his lengthy apology, he expressed sincere remorse to the victim and their family, acknowledging that he wished to apologize in person but understood their reluctance to meet him. He stated, "There was no reason for them to experience such an ordeal, and I deeply reflect on the pain I caused." Koala also extended his apologies to others who were indirectly affected by the incident, recognizing the disappointment he caused and accepting full responsibility. He admitted, "While I was not the one who initiated the violence, I played a significant role in escalating the situation due to misunderstandings and poor judgment." He reflected on the difficult process of confronting the situation, stating it allowed him to grow and learn from his mistakes. He concluded by affirming that the case has been officially closed and that he aims to show a better version of himself moving forward. Koala also shared a handwritten apology note in both English and Korean. According to police reports, Koala was referred to the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office for allegedly threatening and assaulting a fan of Jessi in the early hours of September last year in Apgujeong, Gangnam. The incident began when a minor approached Jessi for a photo. CCTV footage captured Koala and a foreign male, identified as A, assaulting the fan. Jessi reportedly intervened but left the scene shortly after. The police later decided not to pursue charges against Jessi for harboring a fugitive, while A, who fled abroad after the assault, is currently wanted and has been placed on an Interpol alert.
