In a shocking BBC documentary titled “Burning Sun: Exposing the Secret K-pop Chat Groups,” messages from Jung Joon Young’s Kakao Talk group chat room have been released, shedding light on the severe crimes committed by him, Seungri and other artists.
Released on May 19, the documentary features interviews with reporters Kang Kyung Yoon and Park Hyo Sil, who were the first to report on Jung Joon Young’s “molka” case (illegally filmed videos). One of the sexual assault victims shared her harrowing experience, while the documentary also highlighted former BIGBANG member Seungri’s involvement.
The “Burning Sun Gate” incident began when a man helping a woman being sexually assaulted at a club was attacked by staff and arrested by the police.
Public outcry for justice revealed the club’s connections to prostitution, police corruption, and drug trafficking. Seungri, one of the club’s directors, was implicated, along with numerous celebrities and police officials.
The investigation uncovered a Kakao Talk group chat created by Jung Joon Young in March 2016. The chat contained disturbing messages where members recounted their crimes, including rape and sexual assault, and shared video clips of their actions.
Jung Joon Young and Choi Jong Hoon (former F.T. Island) were revealed to have gang-raped an intoxicated woman at a hotel. Shockingly, Jung showed no remorse, attending a fan signing event the next day as if nothing had happened.
The documentary also included a video of Seungri violently pulling a woman’s wrist at a party, raising his voice when she resisted. Seungri exploited his status in BIGBANG to assert authority, expecting respect from women even while intoxicated.
Despite their serious offenses, Seungri was released from prison after serving only 1 year and 6 months for charges related to habitual gambling, prostitution brokerage, and embezzlement.
Jung Joon Young, having served five years, was released in March, while Choi Jong Hoon served just two years. Many members of the group chat faced no convictions, highlighting a disturbing lack of accountability.