Former B.A.P member Himchan is facing serious legal consequences after admitting to sexual harassment charges. Meanwhile, a third sexual assault case associated with the singer is also under investigation.
Himchan's Legal Troubles
In September of 2019, the K-pop singer faced charges of sexual offense against a woman in her twenties, at a pension house in Namyangju, Gyeonggi. After a prolonged legal battle, Himchan received a sentence of 10 months in prison and was ordered to undergo 40 hours of treatment for sexual violence. Nonetheless, this incident marked only the initial episode of the idol's legal issues.
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While the appeal trial for his first case was ongoing, Himchan was on trial again for sexual harassment of two women outside a pub in Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul in April of last year. During the court proceedings, Himchan identified himself as an unemployed individual and admitted all charges through his legal counsel.
Himchan Admits to All Charges in Recent Trial
In the most recent trial held on April 3rd, 2023, Himchan was indicted on charges of forcible indecency. In court, Himchan's defense lawyer admitted to the charges, saying they would seek an agreement with the victim and urge the case to continue.
It was previously reported that Himchan denied the charges, claiming it was simply an unavoidable physical contact on a narrow staircase. In the end, he admitted to the charges and expressed an intention to reach a settlement with the victims.
Himchan Faces a Third Sexual Assault Case
Also during the trial, it was disclosed that another investigation concerning Himchan is in progress. A motion for consolidation of the case has also been submitted by Himchan's defense team, which will be sent to the prosecution before trial begins.
The defense also requested for a private trial, but got rejected by the court. They stated that in cases of sexual violence, the victim usually asks for a private trial, in which the court allows. However, this is not the case for the idol's trial. Another hearing is scheduled on May 17 as the K-pop idol's legal troubles get worse.
Impact on the Entertainment Industry
The former B.A.P Himchan's cases have sparked a concern among K-pop fans. The prevalence of sexual abuse cases within the entertainment industry and the tendency to ignore them have been brought into question. K-pop fans are now speaking up and urging public figures to take more responsibility and be more open about such issues.
It is not only Himchan that is greatly affected by the issue, but the singer's loyal fans as well. When he was still starting as a member of B.A.P, the idol had a loyal fan base who admired his talents and group contributions.
But after the repeated sexual assault controversies, the sentiments of concerned fans began to shift. The once-adoring supporters started voicing their anger and disappointment, demanding accountability for his actions. The unfolding situation has served as a sobering reminder that no individual, regardless of their public image or popularity, is above the law or exempt from the consequences of their actions.
