Singer Jessi (36) has been embroiled in a controversy involving an assault on a fan by one of her companions. Amid this, she has decided to leave her current agency, D.O.D.
On the 18th, D.O.D stated, "We apologize for causing concern with recent unfortunate news," and added, "We once again express our sincerest apologies." They continued, "Jessi and our company have had extensive discussions about her future activities," and announced, "At Jessi's request, we have decided, after careful consideration, to terminate the exclusive contract as of today (18th)."
Jessi signed an exclusive contract with D.O.D. this past September. She was preparing for a new start by establishing an independent label called 'Unnie' under D.O.D. However, the contract ended in less than a month.
In the early hours of the 29th of last month, Jessi had a gathering with acquaintances in Apgujeong-dong, Gangnam-gu. During this time, a minor fan, referred to as A, requested a photo with Jessi. Jessi declined, and a male in her party assaulted A.
Jessi's attitude was also criticized. CCTV footage showed that Jessi's party initially tried to intervene in the assault but then left the scene. Criticism arose that they did not protect the minor fan.
On the 12th, Jessi wrote an apology on Instagram, stating, "The perpetrator was someone I met for the first time that day" and apologized for her inadequate response, saying, "I was very taken aback by the sudden situation."
Seoul Gangnam Police are investigating the incident. Jessi appeared at the Gangnam Police Station around 10 PM on the 16th for questioning. It is reported that the police summoned Jessi as a suspect.
Additionally, an incident from 11 years ago was brought up. A Korean-American, referred to as B, commented on this recent event, stating, "Jessi still hasn’t changed. Korea has the right to know about this entertainer" and sent emails to various media outlets.
B is a woman who, back in 2013, filed and then withdrew a group assault charge against Jessi and two others in her party. B claimed, "I was suddenly attacked by Jessi's party in a club bathroom in Itaewon."
At that time, Jessi countered, "I only intervened in a fight that broke out between friends. I was in no way involved in the assault." However, due to a lack of witnesses and CCTV, the claims from both sides conflicted.
<Photo Source=DOD>
