"Just Say 'Hyung, I Was Wrong'..." Lee Seunghwan Demands Apology from Gumi Mayor

Lee Rebuts Mayor Kim's Statement After Sharing It

"Gumi City Ordered to Pay 125 Million Won in Damages"

Singer Lee Seunghwan expressed shock at what he called a "deceptive statement" issued by Mayor Kim Jangho of Gumi City following his victory in the first trial over a canceled concert lawsuit. Lee stated, "If Mayor Kim simply apologizes, I will fully accept the first trial's verdict."

On May 11, Lee Seunghwan shared on his Instagram a statement that Mayor Kim had posted on social media on May 9. Lee wrote, "He said, 'I will not back down, prioritizing citizens' safety and acting according to law and principle.' However, as stated in the court ruling, the risks surrounding the concert were only vague assumptions, and efforts for safety were not even properly reviewed. I am appalled that someone who managed such affairs would once again write such a deceptive statement."

He continued, "As someone who is four years older, I dare to offer advice and a suggestion: In times like this, you must be honest and candid." Lee added, "If you simply say, 'Hyung, I was wrong,' I will accept the entire first trial verdict and relieve Mayor Kim of any compensation liability."

On May 8, the court ruled that Gumi City's unilateral cancellation of the concert and its demand for a written pledge were illegal, ordering Gumi City to pay a total of 125 million won in damages to Lee Seunghwan and ticket purchasers. Immediately after the verdict, Lee stated, "I will appeal and also pursue Mayor Kim's personal responsibility."

Lee Seunghwan said, "I do not wish for things to get worse for Gumi City. We must not let the already wasted tax money, administrative resources, and the city's damaged internal and external credibility be neglected any further." He continued, "With that in mind, I will not appeal against Gumi City itself, regardless of whether Mayor Kim apologizes. I do not want Gumi City to be burdened with compensation beyond what was decided in the first trial." He also emphasized, "As I have already promised, all compensation awarded to me and Dream Factory, except for legal costs, will be donated to the 'Uri Dreambit Youth Orchestra' in Gumi City."

Finally, Lee Seunghwan repeatedly urged, "Apologize as a true Gyeongsang-do man," and added, "I hope you protect your last bit of pride as the mayor of Gumi."

Meanwhile, in his May 9 statement, Mayor Kim said, "As mayor, I will not back down when it comes to citizens' safety, acting according to law and principle," and added, "I will continue to prioritize the lives and safety of citizens in my duties." He also stated, "Future responses will proceed after legal consultation."