Ju Haknyeon, who was recently removed from the boy group THE BOYZ, has been reported to the police on charges related to prostitution.
On June 19, 2025 (KST), it was reported that a netizen filed a complaint with the Gangnam Police Station in Seoul, requesting an investigation into Ju Haknyeon for allegedly violating Article 4 of the Act on the Punishment of Arranging Sexual Traffic, which pertains to prohibited acts such as engaging in or facilitating prostitution.
The complainant further urged authorities to broaden the scope of the investigation, citing industry-level issues of alleged structural prostitution solicitation and complicity. They also referenced a statement from an insider, quoted in related media reports, claiming that a producer mentioned alongside Ju Haknyeon had also been suspended from duties due to similar allegations. The netizen emphasized that such circumstances could point to not only direct involvement but also aiding or brokering prostitution, all of which are considered serious offenses under Korean law.
The controversy erupted earlier this week when Ju Haknyeon was reported to have socialized with former Japanese AV (adult video) actress Asuka Kirara at a bar in Tokyo. Shortly thereafter, rumors surfaced alleging that the idol had engaged in prostitution during his time in Tokyo—a claim that added fuel to the already heated situation.
In response, Ju Haknyeon released a handwritten apology via his personal account on June 19. In the letter, he acknowledged attending the late-night gathering with an acquaintance on May 30 and confirmed that Asuka Kirara was present. However, he firmly denied any wrongdoing, stating, “It is true I was at the gathering, but I did not engage in prostitution or any illegal activity as reported in the media or online rumors.”
Prostitution is highly illegal in South Korea and is considered a sexual offense. Read more about it below.
