The Most Shocking Scandals That Shook the K-Entertainment Industry – Ranked

The world of Korean entertainment has long been a glamorous and enchanting place for fans, but behind the glittering lights, there have been scandals that have rocked the industry to its core. Recently, the tragic passing of actress Kim Sae-ron and the ensuing controversies surrounding her and her close associates, including Kim Soo-hyun, have brought these issues to the forefront once again.

Let’s take a look back at some of the most shocking scandals that have stunned the K-Entertainment world, from high-profile idols to beloved actors and actresses. Here's our Shocking Scandal Ranking out of 10 based on the intensity, media attention, and long-term impact on the industry.

🔥 The Burning Sun scandal is arguably the most infamous and far-reaching scandal in K-pop history. In 2019, the luxurious Burning Sun nightclub was embroiled in a massive scandal involving sexual assault, drug distribution, and police corruption. The case led to the arrest of Seungri, a member of the globally famous K-pop group BIGBANG, who was accused of organizing and participating in illegal activities. Other high-profile figures were implicated, sparking a nationwide conversation about the deep-rooted corruption within the entertainment industry. Fans were left in disbelief as the scandal grew to involve multiple celebrities, business tycoons, and even law enforcement officials, shaking the foundation of the K-pop industry.

💬 Shock Rating: 10/10 — A scandal that completely changed the public's trust in idols and their behind-the-scenes activities.

💔 The tragic suicide of Kim Sae-ron in 2025 followed a driving under the influence (DUI) incident in 2022 that brought intense public scrutiny. Kim's tragic end sparked a national conversation about the mental health struggles of K-entertainment stars. Adding fuel to the fire, shocking allegations surfaced regarding her supposed romantic involvement with actor Kim Soo-hyun, stirring debates about the responsibilities of celebrities and their relationships. The immense pressure of fame, online harassment, and constant media exposure all seemed to contribute to her struggles, highlighting the dark side of celebrity culture. Kim Sae-ron's passing, along with the speculated circumstances, left a significant impact on both her fans and the entertainment industry.

💬 Shock Rating: 9/10 — A tragic loss that not only shocked the public but also highlighted the toll that fame takes on mental health.

💥 Lee Byung-hun, the star of Mr. Sunshine and Squid Game 2, was embroiled in a blackmail scandal in 2014 when two women attempted to extort him by releasing sexually explicit videos of him. One of the women was a K-pop idol. The case became one of the most talked-about scandals in Korean entertainment at the time, with Lee Byung-hun making headlines for his legal battle against the blackmailers. Despite the scandal, his career recovered, and he continued to work in the industry. However, the case raised questions about the invasive nature of fame and the lengths some will go to for money and revenge.

💬 Shock Rating: 8/10 — A shocking scandal involving one of the biggest actors in Korea, which brought privacy issues into the spotlight.

😱 The sudden divorce of FT Island's Choi Min-hwan and former Laboum member Yulhee grabbed attention in 2024, especially after Yulhee made allegations about Choi's misconduct. These accusations included claims of him visiting adult entertainment venues and being unfaithful. Although Choi was investigated, he was ultimately cleared due to insufficient evidence, but the controversy was significant enough to make him step down from popular variety shows like The Return of Superman. Fans were shocked by the allegations and the subsequent divorce, as Choi had previously been seen as a beloved figure in the K-pop industry.

💬 Shock Rating: 7/10 — A public breakup with serious allegations that shook the reputation of a beloved idol.

👶 Jung Woo-sung, one of Korea's most respected actors, shocked fans in 2024 when it was revealed he had a secret child. This revelation, which had been kept hidden for years, stirred up debates over privacy and the transparency of public figures. The news was met with mixed reactions—while some fans were supportive, others felt betrayed by the actor's failure to disclose such personal matters earlier. It raised important questions about celebrity transparency and public expectations versus personal privacy.

💬 Shock Rating: 6/10 — A revelation that rocked fans but did not carry the same shock value as some of the more scandalous cases.

💥 Yoo Ah-in, one of Korea's top actors, became embroiled in a major drug scandal in 2023. He was investigated for multiple substances, sparking outrage among fans and the public. Known for his roles in Burning and Hellbound, Yoo Ah-in's career and public image took a massive hit. His involvement in the scandal raised concerns about drug use among Korean celebrities and ignited conversations about the pressures that lead to such behavior. This scandal was particularly shocking given his clean image and widespread popularity.

💬 Shock Rating: 9/10 — A fall from grace for one of Korea's most admired actors, making headlines worldwide.

7. Former NCT Member Taeil Sexual Assault Allegations (2024) – Shock Rating: 10/10

😤 The news that Taeil, a former member of NCT, has been indicted on sexual assault charges has sent shockwaves through the K-pop community and beyond. The Seoul Central District Prosecutor’s Office officially charged Taeil and two accomplices with sexual assault under South Korea’s Sexual Violence Punishment Act. The allegations stem from an incident in June 2022, where they allegedly raped a woman who was intoxicated. The case has sparked public outrage, drawing condemnation from fans and the general public alike.

💬 Shock Rating: 10/10 — One of the most shocking and devastating allegations in K-pop, with far-reaching consequences for both the accused and the industry.

These scandals highlight the darker side of Korean entertainment, where the pressure of fame, personal choices, and hidden secrets often collide. From tragic suicides to shocking criminal cases, these incidents serve as a stark reminder of the psychological toll faced by those in the spotlight. They underscore the need for mental health support and the responsibility that comes with fame. As the K-entertainment industry continues to evolve, it remains clear that these scandals have forever changed how fans and the public view the stars they once idolized.