Kim Dong-wan’s Busking Amid Controversy: What You Need to Know!

Daniel Kim 2026.03.24 Views

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Kim Dong-wan / Photo=DB

[Sports Today reporter Kim Tae-hyung] Kim Dong-wan, a member of veteran K-pop group Shinhwa and an actor, clarified why he plans to proceed with a scheduled busking performance despite allegations raised by a former manager.

On the 24th, Xportsnews published details from a phone interview with Kim. He said the performance had already been planned and prepared, and although canceling was a possibility given the circumstances, he ultimately decided to go ahead.

Kim said the busking was organized in recognition of Shinhwa’s 28th anniversary, noting the group often marks milestone dates with small events. He added that he would like to perform with Shinhwa but “I don’t know when or how we’ll be able to gather.”

The event will take place on the lawn plaza at Iljasan Urban Natural Park in Gangdong-gu, Seoul. Kim expressed gratitude toward local officials, saying it’s usually difficult to secure public spaces but, having lived in Gangdong-gu for some time, he appreciated the district office’s cooperation.

On hiring a sound director and a security team, he said he expects roughly 100 attendees and was mindful that many fans would come with family members. “The security staff will manage the crowd well,” he said, explaining the arrangements were made out of concern for fans’ safety.

The busking will run from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. Kim acknowledged the pressure surrounding the event but said, “On stage, I hope both the audience and I can forget everything and just enjoy the moment.”

The performance is drawing attention because it comes amid controversy. Kim recently posted a message defending MC Dingdong, who has faced allegations of assaulting a female streamer, and received criticism. He deleted the post and apologized, saying his wording did not sufficiently consider the situation.

The dispute deepened after a post circulated from someone identifying as Kim’s former manager, referred to as A. In the post, A wrote, “How are things any different now than years ago? Drinking, using Clubhouse and making headlines; drinking, going live and fighting with fans. Maybe this time he wanted to be a hero.” A also alleged that Kim asked for help finding a musical role because he needed cash, claiming A negotiated directly with a producer to secure the highest possible fee, only for Kim to suddenly refuse and leave A in an awkward position.

Kim has dismissed A’s post as false and said he will pursue legal action if the spread of misinformation continues. A responded with scorn, writing, “It’s laughable to call this false information and threaten civil and criminal legal action. You can’t say I made this up. There are many stories, but I’ve stayed quiet to avoid making a bigger fuss. Just stay still, man—you didn’t do anything right.”