SHINee‘s Key exits TV programs after home-treatment dispute

Dec 18, 2025, 09:56 am

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SHINee’s Key. / Source: SM Entertainment

Key of SHINee has acknowledged receiving at-home treatment from a person dubbed “Jusaimo” and said he will withdraw from all programs he has been appearing on.

SM Entertainment said on December 17 that Key visited a hospital in Seoul’s Gangnam District where the person, identified only by the surname Lee, worked, after being introduced by an acquaintance, and that he understood Lee to be a licensed doctor at the time. The agency added that Key had continued receiving treatment at the hospital, and that in recent cases — when it became difficult to visit in person — he received treatment at home several times.

SM said Key believed Lee was a doctor and that, in a situation where no clear explanation was given, he did not recognize that home visits could be problematic. However, after controversy over Lee’s medical license emerged, Key learned for the first time that Lee was not a doctor, and is “deeply reflecting on his lack of judgment” amid significant confusion, the agency said.

The controversy spread after photos, including images of Key’s pet dog, were posted to Lee’s social media accounts. As Key did not immediately clarify his position, calls for an explanation grew among fans. Key has been on a solo U.S. tour this month, including stops such as Los Angeles, Oakland and Chicago, and he was absent from a studio recording of MBC’s I Live Alone on December 8 due to overseas scheduling.

SM apologized for the delay in issuing a statement, saying it had been necessary to coordinate with multiple parties related to the overseas tour. The agency said Key recognizes the seriousness of the matter and has decided to step down from all scheduled activities and every program he was appearing on.

Key has been a regular cast member on tvN’s Amazing Saturday and MBC’s I Live Alone. With comedian Park Na-rae having previously halted her broadcast activities amid the same controversy, Key’s decision to exit programs is fueling wider fallout over allegations of illegal medical practices.

SM added that it “sincerely apologizes once again” for causing concern to fans and the public.

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