As the BBC documentary on the "Burning Sun" scandal continues to take the spotlight, Seungri's way of treating female idols, including Kim Sejeong, has resurfaced on the web.
On May 25, a clip featuring Seungri and former I.O.I-turned-soloist Sejeong became a hot topic among K-pop fans after noticing how the ex-convict treated the songstress.
The interaction happened on the show "Salty Tour," which aired in August 2018, where the Seungri and Jung Joon Young gathered at a restaurant with Kim Sejeong, as well as other guests for dinner.
While the atmosphere at the time of its broadcast received positive reviews, it belatedly became a hot topic after viewers noticed Seungri's "inappropriate" treatment of the younger idol.
During the gathering with other men, Seungri unexpectedly suggested that Sejeong pour an alcoholic drink to the most attractive male guest. He said:
"Since Sejeong came out on Salty Tour, haven’t you? There are five more men present here. Forget their fame, status and wealth. Just based on their looks, attitude and style, pour beer to the one that you find most attractive today."
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At the time, Sejeong wasn't able to do anything but give an awkward smile. She asked:
"What is this?"
Seeing this now, fans are furious that Seungri made Sejeong do it, despite the Korean culture where women are asked to pour drinks for men at bars. This signifies that the one pouring is inferior or submitting to the one receiving the drink.
Fans are also angered that Sejeong, who was only 22 at the time, was treated like a bar hostess to boost the ego of the men there, who were already in their early 30s.
While the Korean Communication Standards Commission (KCSC) charged tvN for disciplinary action for gender equality violation, fans are disappointed that Seungri was able to get away with it when it was aired, if it weren't for his involvement in the "Burning Sun" case.
The "Burning Sun Gate" controversy is a mass sexual crime case involving K-pop stars in 2019 including sexual exploitation, assault, rape, police corruption, and more.
The major personalities behind these crimes were Jung Joon Young and Seungri, but the latter was only sentenced to 1 year and 9 months on charges of soliciting prostitution and habitual gambling.
After being released from prison in February 2023, Seungri hasn't reflected yet, and is actually continuing his luxurious life abroad, while using BIGBANG's name, his former group.
READ MORE: Footage of BLACKPINK Jennie Confronting Seungri Over Lies of Her 'Touching' Him Resurfaces
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Written by Eunice Dela Cruz
