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Manila Bulletin devider Entertainment devider Celebrities devider SHINee's Key apologizes, steps down from TV shows over issue of getting illegal medical treatment

SHINee's Key apologizes, steps down from TV shows over issue of getting illegal medical treatment

Published Dec 17, 2025 03:47 pm
Comedian Park Na-rae (left) and SHINee's Key (Instagram, X)
Comedian Park Na-rae (left) and SHINee's Key (Instagram, X)

K-pop group SHINee member Key has issued an apology and stepped down from TV shows after admitting getting medical treatments from an unlicensed medical practitioner in South Korea. 

The unlicensed medical practitioner, known in Korea as “Injection Aunt,” is known by the surname Lee. 

Key’s issue stemmed from the controversy involving comedian Park Na-rae, who was sued by her former managers for abuse, unregistered company among others. She allegedly got treatment from the unlicensed practitioner. 

Key and Park Na-rae are regular cast members of the TV shows “I Live Alone" and "Amazing Saturday."

SM Entertainment, Key’s agency, issued a statement on Dec. 17, saying, "Key first got to know her as a doctor when he visited a hospital in Gangnam-gu where 'Injection Aunt' Lee works, upon the recommendation of an acquaintance."

"Since then, Key has been receiving treatment at the hospital, and recently, when it was difficult to visit the hospital, he has received treatment at home several times. Key is very confused and deeply reflecting on his ignorance after realizing for the first time that he is not a doctor due to the recent controversy over Lee's medical license,” the agency said. 

It added, “Key has recognized the seriousness of this matter and has decided to withdraw from his current schedule and the program he is currently appearing in. We sincerely apologize for causing concern to everyone."

Park Na-rae, Key and the cast members of
Park Na-rae, Key and the cast members of "I Live Alone" with a guest (Instagram)
Key (X)
Key (X)
Park Na-rae, Key and the cast members of
Park Na-rae, Key and the cast members of "I Live Alone" with a guest (Instagram)

"We sincerely apologize for the difficulty in expressing our position quickly due to the need for communication with various parties involved in overseas tour schedules and activities,” SM Entertainment said. 

Key took to Instagram and apologized for the controversy. 

“I sincerely apologize for causing concern to many people with the recent stories about me. I, too, was confused and bewildered by the new information I learned, and I apologize for not being able to clarify my position and reveal my future plans sooner,” he said. 

He added, “I used to pride myself on being able to distance myself from such incidents, but I feel that this belief has prevented me from being more wise and reflecting on my surroundings. I feel deeply sorry and ashamed towards the many people who believed in me and supported me.”

“I will diligently do everything I can regarding this matter. I will once again take the time to reflect on myself and those around me. Once again, I sincerely apologize,” he said. 

“Amazing Saturday,” a tvN show, announced on Dec. 17, "'Amazing Saturday' respects Key's decision to stop broadcasting, and he will not be participating in any recordings that will take place from now on."

Key also stepped down from his schedule to act as an emcee at the 2025 MBC Entertainment Awards, which will be held on Dec. 29. 

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