"Should Never Make Headlines for the Wrong Reasons"... SHINee's Key Faces Backlash as Past Remarks Resurface Amid 'Injection Aunt' Controversy

[Financial News] As SHINee's Key admitted to receiving treatment from 'Injection Aunt' and issued an apology, his past remarks have resurfaced, leaving fans disappointed.
On the 17th, an online community revisited comments Key made on a YouTube channel last September.
At the time, Key stated, "I don't think there are any set standards for idols. The important thing is to keep what should be kept and not to disappoint fans. You should never make headlines for the wrong reasons. If you do make the news, it should only be for something positive."
He added, "I'm only human, so I might not always live a blameless life. That's why I try my best to avoid getting involved in any problematic situations."
Contrary to his previously stated convictions, Key has now disappointed fans due to his involvement in the 'Injection Aunt' controversy.
On the 6th, Key was embroiled in allegations that he had maintained a close relationship with Park Na-rae's 'Injection Aunt' for over ten years. Fans of Key and the Munhwa Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) variety show 'I Live Alone' demanded an explanation, but both Key and his agency, SM Entertainment, remained silent for more than ten days.
An official statement was released 11 days after the allegations surfaced. On the 17th, the agency explained, "Key first met Ms. Lee (Injection Aunt) at a hospital in Gangnam District, which he visited on a friend's recommendation. When it became difficult to visit the hospital recently, he received treatment at home several times."
The agency continued, "Key believed Ms. Lee was a licensed doctor and did not think receiving treatment at home would be an issue. He only recently learned that she was not a doctor, which left him deeply confused and regretful about his lack of awareness."
On the same day, Key also apologized via his Social Networking Service (SNS), stating, "I, too, am confused and embarrassed by these new revelations. I apologize for not clarifying my position sooner and for not addressing how I would move forward more quickly."
He added, "I always believed I could keep myself away from such incidents, but that mindset may have prevented me from being more vigilant. I am truly sorry and ashamed for disappointing those who have trusted and supported me."
However, as it became known that Key held a solo concert tour and attended a fan signing event in the United States of America (USA) until the 15th, some have questioned the sincerity of his apology. Additionally, there is skepticism over how Key, whose mother worked as a nurse at a university hospital, could have been unaware of the illegality of unlicensed medical practice.
Due to the controversy, Key has stepped down from all programs in which he was a regular cast member or was scheduled to appear.

gaa1003@fnnews.com An Ga-eul Reporter