'Gambling + Debt' Controversy Surrounds SES's Shoo, Public Opinion Turns Cold on Her Solo Debut in Japan

Former member of the group S.E.S, Shoo.
[Photo by Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Bong-ju] Shoo (real name Yoo Soo-young, 39), formerly of SES, is facing criticism from netizens after it was revealed that she pushed forward with her solo debut in Japan amid allegations of overseas gambling and debt controversies. Netizens are condemning Shoo's irresponsible behavior for proceeding with her Japanese solo debut while the gambling and debt issues remain unresolved.

Recently, Shoo's Japanese agency, Diamond Music, announced her solo debut through their official website.

On the 7th, Shoo released a digital single titled "I Found Love." Additionally, Shoo's new song has been selected as the theme song for the movie "End of Century Blue," starring Joo-yeon, a member of NML48 (AKB48's overseas sister group based in Manila, Philippines).

Previously, Shoo was sentenced in February last year to six months in prison with a two-year probation and 80 hours of community service for repeatedly gambling approximately 800 million KRW in Macau and other locations from August 2016 to May 2018.

Shoo was also embroiled in a debt controversy. An acquaintance of Shoo, Mr. Park, filed a loan claim lawsuit demanding repayment of about 350 million KRW of gambling debts from Shoo. However, Shoo's side stated, "The money borrowed from Mr. Park was for gambling purposes and is an illegal cause of payment, so there is no obligation to repay."

Ultimately, in May last year, Mr. Park filed a lawsuit against Shoo at the Seoul Central District Court for repayment of the loan, and the court ruled in the first trial that Shoo must return approximately 340 million KRW.

Shoo is attempting to renegotiate repayment with Mr. Park and will attend a mediation hearing at the 9th Civil Division of the Seoul High Court on the 30th.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.