BBC has recently released a documentary titled Burning Sun: Exposing the secret K-pop chat groups – BBC World Service Documentaries, uncovering new and shocking details about the Burning Sun scandal. The documentary, released on May 19, 2024, has stirred significant public reaction.
New Insights on the Molka Case
The documentary sheds light on the molka (secret filming) case involving singer Jung Joon Young. Molka refers to the act of secretly recording someone without their knowledge or consent, often during intimate moments, and distributing the footage on pornographic sites.
In September 2016, a woman named Kyung Mi claimed she was a victim of molka by Jung Joon Young. Despite her initial reluctance to report the incident due to threats from the KBS legal team, it was revealed that private forensics were used to cover up the case, and the police closed the investigation without thoroughly examining Joon Young’s phone.
Journalist Park Hyo Sil’s Ordeal
Reporter Park Hyo Sil, who uncovered the Burning Sun scandal, faced severe backlash from fans of the accused artists. This led to immense personal trauma, including two miscarriages caused by malicious comments and harassing phone calls. Despite these hardships, Park expressed pride in her work and has received apologies from netizens for their previous attacks.
The Leak of Jung Joon Young’s Phone Data
Three years after the initial molka case, another journalist, Kang Kyung Yoon, received leaked data from Jung Joon Young’s phone. This data revealed a KakaoTalk chat group where several celebrities, including Seungri from BIGBANG and Choi Jong Hoon from FT Island, shared explicit content and discussed criminal activities. The contents of the chat group were disturbing, showing unconscious women being raped.
Seungri’s Role in the KakaoTalk Group
Within the chat group, Seungri was considered the ‘chairman’ and commanded significant influence. Using his popularity, he facilitated many of the group’s illegal activities. Seungri’s behavior towards women in the group was particularly appalling, often disrespecting and forcing them into uncomfortable situations.
Harassment by Jung Joon Young and Choi Jong Hoon
Another shocking revelation was the harassment incident in Daegu in March 2016. Jung Joon Young and Choi Jong Hoon harassed a woman during a drinking session after a fan signing event. Audio related to this incident was shared in the chat group, further implicating the two artists.
Goo Hara’s Assistance
The documentary also highlights the late Goo Hara’s crucial role in helping journalist Kang Kyung Yoon. Goo Hara, who had experienced similar crimes, provided information about the police involvement in the KakaoTalk chat group. Her assistance was pivotal in uncovering the extent of the scandal.
Policeman Yoon Kyu Keun’s Involvement
With Goo Hara’s help, it was revealed that Senior Inspector Yoon Kyu Keun was involved in covering up the scandal. Despite his name being disclosed, Yoon Kyu Keun was cleared of charges but was eventually suspended from his position.
Burning Sun’s Exploitation of Women
The documentary delves into the heinous practices at the Burning Sun club, where women were often drugged and raped by VIP clients. The club’s employees facilitated these crimes, making it a hub of exploitation and abuse.
Goo Hara’s Final Interaction
The documentary concludes with a touching recount of journalist Kang Kyung Yoon’s last interaction with Goo Hara before her tragic death. Goo Hara, despite her struggles, played a vital role in uncovering the truth about the Burning Sun scandal.
Opinions and Reflections
The revelations in this documentary are both shocking and heartbreaking. It exposes the dark underbelly of the K-pop industry and the severe consequences of power abuse and corruption. The bravery of journalists like Park Hyo Sil and Kang Kyung Yoon in bringing these issues to light is commendable. Their relentless pursuit of truth, despite facing severe personal consequences, serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of investigative journalism in holding the powerful accountable.
The involvement of beloved public figures in such heinous acts is a stark contrast to their public personas, leading to a profound sense of betrayal among fans. The documentary not only highlights the need for stricter regulations and better protection for victims but also calls for a cultural shift towards accountability and justice.
In conclusion, the BBC documentary on the Burning Sun scandal provides a much-needed exposé of the systemic issues within the entertainment industry. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding the full extent of the scandal and the tireless efforts of those who sought justice.
