On the morning of the 12th, former Highlight member Yong Jun-hyung posted a lengthy message on his Instagram apologizing to the public for his past involvement in a controversial video incident and his previous silence on the matter. He expressed his regret and stated his commitment to self-reflection and personal growth, urging everyone not to harm his family and friends in the process.
In 2019, South Korean media reported that Yong Jun-hyung and other male celebrities had watched illegal videos. He later admitted that at the end of 2015, he had drinks with actor Jung Joon-young, who confessed to filming inappropriate videos of women without their consent. While Yong Jun-hyung did not receive the videos filmed by Jung Joon-young, he admitted to receiving other videos and making inappropriate comments at the time.
In his confession in 2019, Yong Jun-hyung stated, “All the actions at that time were extremely unethical, and I was very foolish. I did not realize it was a criminal act, and I was too casual and negligent. Not taking a firm stand to stop it was my fault.” Subsequently, he withdrew from the boy group Highlight.
This morning, Yong Jun-hyung uploaded a completely black photo on his official Instagram, writing, “I was ignorant and made mistakes. In the midst of heated criticism, fearing that I would bring harm to the company and members, for whom I have worked for many years and cherished dearly, I have come to terms with the possibility of losing everything and chose to withdraw (from Highlight).”
He continued, “Without any explanation, I received a black screen video in a private chat room. I opened and watched it without knowing its content or the sender’s intention. I could have said, ‘Stop, this is wrong,’ but I didn’t become that person nor took it seriously.”
Yong Jun-hyung emphasized, “I have never been part of the controversial chat groups nor had any involvement in those disgustful incidents mentioned. Despite repeatedly clarifying these points, the media and many people continue to associate me with those events wrongly.”
He admitted, “I lacked the courage to confront the past and let it go. I just thought, ‘Everything will pass,’ and cowardly avoided facing it. Even if it leaves scars, I will endure it. Please… I earnestly request that my beloved family, friends, and all those who care about me, including my fans who have supported me despite my flaws, do not suffer.”
In conclusion, Yong Jun-hyung wrote, “To everyone, especially the numerous media outlets, I reflect deeply every day on the uncorrected parts of my past actions and foolish words, striving to become a mature person. Thank you for reading this messy and lengthy message. Be cautious of getting a cold in the hot summer and have a healthy and happy day!”