In Gumi, North Gyeongsang Province, authorities decided to cancel singer Lee Seung-hwan’s concert venue reservation due to safety concerns, drawing attention to his next performance scheduled in Gimhae, South Gyeongsang Province, on the 29th. Lee Seung-hwan declined to sign a pledge stating he would refrain from making political remarks during his concert, which led to the cancellation decision in Gumi.
The issue sparked debates among netizens and citizens, some of whom argued that Lee should be prohibited from holding his concert in Gimhae as well, citing his history of political statements. They claimed his concerts were not just performances but also platforms for political agitation. Others, however, criticized this as an act of ideological censorship and an attack on democratic values, emphasizing the importance of respecting diverse opinions.
Previously, on December 13, Lee Seung-hwan participated in a candlelight vigil for the impeachment of President Yoon Suk-yeol, describing himself as a “specialty singer for impeachment rallies.” He has also been involved in political activities such as the 2016 protests demanding the resignation of former President Park Geun-hye.
In response to the cancellation, Gumi’s Mayor Kim Jang-ho explained that the decision was based on safety concerns, as per cultural center regulations. He requested Lee to submit a safety staffing plan and to sign a pledge not to make political remarks, which Lee refused through his legal representative.
Lee Seung-hwan expressed disagreement with the cancellation, stating that the legal and financial consequences should be borne by those who made the decision, not by taxpayers, indicating his intention to take legal action.