Singer Kim Ho-joong apologizes after parole release in drunk-driving hit-and-run case

Singer Kim Ho-joong, who drew widespread public outrage over a drunk-driving hit-and-run and an alleged scheme to substitute another driver, has been released from prison on parole. Having initially denied any drinking before eventually admitting to it, Kim issued a belated apology through his official fan cafe shortly after walking free.

In a handwritten letter posted to his official fan cafe on Tuesday, Kim opened by writing, "It took two years for me to write here again."

He went on to explain the circumstances of his release, writing that he had been deemed eligible for parole consideration in June 2026 and that he "came out into the world today, June 30."

Reflecting on the leniency shown by authorities, Kim said he felt not freedom or relief at leaving prison, but a deeper sense of responsibility and remorse, pledging to fulfill the remainder of his sentence in spirit. He added that he would "clearly see" his situation and "live without going astray," and closed with repeated apologies: "I am sorry. I am truly sorry. I will reflect more and set my heart right."

At around 11:44 p.m. on May 9, 2024, Kim crossed the center line while driving drunk on Apgujeong-ro in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, struck an oncoming taxi and fled the scene. He and his agency then allegedly conspired to have his manager, identified only by his surname Jang, turn himself in to police in Kim's place, obstructing the legal process. Public anger intensified when Kim flatly denied having drunk anything immediately after the accident. He admitted to drunk driving only after CCTV footage and other evidence surfaced roughly 10 days later, drawing further condemnation.

Both the first and second courts handed down a sentence of two years and six months, citing the gravity of the offenses. After Kim withdrew his Supreme Court appeal, the sentence was finalized and he was transferred to Somang Prison in Yeoju, Gyeonggi Province — the country's only privately operated correctional facility — to serve out his term. The parole decision freed him five months ahead of his scheduled release date in November.