Singer JK Kim Dong-uk / Captured from his Instagram

Prosecutors have launched an investigation into Korean Canadian singer JK Kim Dong-uk following a complaint alleging that he violated Korea's Immigration Act, which restricts foreign nationals' political activities in Korea.

The 49-year-old singer has been a vocal supporter of President Yoon Suk Yeol, particularly during the recent political turmoil following Yoon's controversial declaration of martial law in December. He has consistently defended the president amid the subsequent impeachment proceedings.

Following Yoon's arrest on Jan. 15, Kim said on his social media, "I have no doubt that this situation will be reflected in the soaring approval ratings of the president, despite his unfortunate but wise decision."

His comment on social media prompted someone to file a complaint, alleging that Kim's actions violate the Immigration Act, which restricts political activities by foreign nationals living in Korea.

"Kim is a foreign national who renounced his Korean citizenship and acquired Canadian citizenship in the past. He has, however, continued to engage in political activities," the complaint said.

The person who filed the complaint posted a screenshot on an online forum from the Supreme Prosecutors' Office's criminal justice information system, showing that the case has been assigned to a prosecutor at the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office, thereby confirming the commencement of the investigation.

Article 17 of the Immigration Act stipulates, "No alien staying in the Republic of Korea shall engage in any political activity unless otherwise permitted by this Act or other Acts."

On Jan. 17, the day reports of the complaint surfaced, the Canadian singer responded on his Instagram account, saying, "Since when has [the] Republic of Korea been a country that suppresses freedom of expression?" He also said he was born in Seoul and immigrated to Canada after dropping out of high school in his sophomore year.