In a surprising move that has stirred disappointment among netizens, former TVXQ and JYJ member Park Yoochun has unveiled plans to mark his two-decade-long career with a Japan fan meeting and dinner show. However, the celebration is marred by an ongoing tax evasion controversy that continues to cast a shadow over the artist.
Brother's Revelation: "Re.birth" Fan Meeting and Dinner Show
The announcement of Park Yoochun's commemorative events came through his brother, Park Yoo Hwan, who revealed details surrounding the artist's 20th debut anniversary celebration. The fan meeting, named "Re.birth," is set for February 9 and 10, with a year-end dinner show following on February 11.
Ticket Prices and Backlash
Despite the festive nature of the occasion, criticism has erupted over the steep ticket prices. Each of the four fan meeting sessions is priced at 23,000 yen (approximately ₩210,000 KRW or $161 USD) per ticket, while the dinner show, scheduled twice, commands a higher cost of 50,000 yen (around ₩460,000 KRW or $353 USD). The elevated prices have triggered discontent, amplifying the scrutiny due to Park Yoochun's troubled history.
A Troubled Past: Scandals and Resistance
Park Yoochun has weathered scandals, including sexual assault allegations in 2015. Despite being cleared of charges, he faced criticism for not compensating the accuser. In 2019, he faced drug-related charges involving methamphetamine, resulting in a 10-month prison sentence with a two-year suspended sentence. Resistant Korean netizens have forced him to primarily engage in activities abroad.
Adding to the mounting controversies, Park Yoochun's name recently surfaced on the National Tax Service's list of high-value defaulters. He is reportedly owing over ₩400 million KRW (approximately $307,000 USD) in unpaid taxes for five cases in 2016. This revelation has intensified public outcry, with netizens expressing disappointment and urging him to prioritize settling his tax obligations.
The Lingering Question: Is it Too Soon for a Comeback?
As Park Yoochun takes the stage amidst ongoing controversies, a pressing question looms: Is it too soon for a comeback? The artist's attempt to celebrate two decades in the industry is met with a complex mix of disappointment, criticism, and skepticism from a public still grappling with his troubled past.
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Cassidy Jones wrote this.