Gunil, a former member of South Korean rock band Xdinary Heroes, said he never considered leaving the group voluntarily. His comments came amid allegations involving insulting fans. He also disputed JYP Entertainment’s claim that both sides agreed to end his exclusive contract.
Attorney Sung Jae-hwan of Joowon Law Firm released a statement on Thursday on Gunil’s behalf. The lawyer said Gunil did not consent to leaving the group or to the agency’s decision to terminate his contract.
The statement directly challenged JYP’s announcement on August 13. The agency said both sides reached a “mutual agreement” after determining that the controversy would make it “difficult to continue group activities together.”
Lawyer denies wider allegations against Gunil
The controversy began after several online posts circulated a private phone conversation. The recording captured Gunil making negative remarks about fans.
Gunil previously apologised to fans over the comments. He also confirmed that he was the person in the leaked recording.
“The artist’s use of inappropriate language in a private setting was a lapse that cannot be justified for any reason,” Joowon Law Firm said.
The lawyer added that Gunil faced considerable psychological strain at the time. Online posts and alleged privacy intrusions had also affected him. According to the statement, Gunil used inappropriate language while trying to relieve that pressure during a private phone call.
The lawyer also rejected several other accusations that appeared online. These included claims that Gunil repeatedly disrespected or attacked fans. Other claims alleged that he spoke negatively about his bandmates or was unfaithful in a relationship.
“Having reviewed the records, this counsel finds that it is not true that the artist has habitually or repeatedly directed abuse or criticism at fans of the band,” The Korea JoongAng Daily quoted the statement as saying.
The lawyer also denied claims that Gunil spoke badly about his fellow members or had another relationship while dating someone else.
The statement said an online article that triggered the controversy included several unverified claims. According to the lawyer, those claims damaged Gunil’s developing career.
False claims can cause lasting online harm
Gunil’s case highlights the potential consequences of spreading unverified information online.
Social media allows claims to reach millions of people within a short time. False information can quickly gain attention and damage a person’s reputation, career and relationships before others can verify the facts.
Depending on the jurisdiction and nature of the allegations, people who spread false claims could also face civil or criminal consequences.
Gunil’s lawyer said the artist could take legal action against the person who first posted the allegations. However, Gunil chose to forgive that individual.
Gunil also apologised to fans and his fellow members for the situation. He said he hoped to continue discussions with JYP Entertainment about his contract.
Xdinary Heroes will continue as a five-member group. The lineup includes Jooyeon, Jungsu, Gaon, Jun Han and O.de.
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