Seungri, a member of South Korean K-pop band Big Bang, says he's leaving the entertainment industry after his alleged sex bribery case swept the country. Grace Lee reports.
A fall from K-pop stardom.
Seungri, a member of South Korea's blockbuster boy band Big Bang, says he's quitting showbiz just a day after he was charged over alleged involvement in a prostitution ring.
K-POP BOY BAND BIG BANG'S MEMBER, SEUNGRI, SAYING:
"I've disappointed so many people and made so many people angry, I want to apologize once more and I will cooperate with the investigation."
The K-pop star, whose real name is Lee Seung-hyun, made the announcement on his instagram account.
He apologized to fans and claimed he's been branded a "traitor to the nation."
According to media reports, he's been charged with providing prostitutes to foreign investors in his private club - a scandal that's swept SouthKorea.
27-YEAR-OLD SOUTH KOREA'S GRADUATE SCHOOL STUDENT, LEE GUN-HEE, SAYING
"It was really shocking. The truth must be told and he deserves to retire."
Last month, Seungri had denied allegations when media said he'd been involved in 'sexual bribery.'
His agency, YG Entertainment, also provided a statement saying the reports were false.
Big Bang is one of K-pop's biggest exports with a massive global fanbase.
Seungri made his official debut in 2006, along with the group's four other members.
His scandal and retirement comes ahead of his military service, which is mandatory for all South Korean men.
His agency had said last week he was set to join the army later this month. (Reuters)
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