The history of K-pop is marked not only by spectacular performances but also by high-profile controversies that have, at times, shifted the entire landscape of the industry.
In the K-pop world, a “scandal” can range from a minor cultural misunderstanding to serious legal issues that lead to permanent removal from a group.
As of 2026, the public’s perception of these events has evolved, with some idols successfully making comebacks while others remain cautionary tales.
Below is an analysis of 15 of the most controversial K-pop idols and the scandals that defined their careers.
TOP 15 Controversial K-pop Idols
1. Seungri (Former BIGBANG)
The “Burning Sun” scandal remains the most significant legal and moral crisis in K-pop history.
Seungri was at the center of a massive investigation involving bribery, embezzlement, and sexual crimes associated with his nightclub.
His subsequent retirement and prison sentence marked a turning point in how the industry and fans view idol accountability.
2. Lucas (Former NCT/WayV)
Lucas’s career was halted following allegations of gaslighting and financial manipulation from multiple former partners in 2021.
The controversy led to a long hiatus and his eventual departure from NCT.
In 2024 and 2025, his solo debut sparked intense debate between those who believed in his redemption and those who felt he should remain out of the industry.
3. G-Dragon (BIGBANG)
G-Dragon has faced several “waves” of controversy, from marijuana allegations early in his career to a 2023 drug investigation where he was eventually cleared of all charges.
His ability to navigate these scandals and remain a “King of K-pop” is a testament to his massive influence and the public’s willingness to distinguish between rumors and reality.
4. Garam (Former LE SSERAFIM)
Garam’s case is one of the most famous examples of a “debut-ending” scandal.
Almost immediately after her debut in 2022, she was accused of school bullying.
Despite her agency’s initial defense, she was removed from the group within months.
The event remains a frequent point of discussion regarding the thoroughness of background checks for trainees.
5. Jennie (BLACKPINK)
Jennie is often the target of “manufactured” controversies.
From allegations of “lazy dancing” to her leaked photos with BTS’s V, she frequently finds herself at the center of public discourse.
While these aren’t legal scandals, the sheer volume of scrutiny she faces makes her one of the most polarizing figures in the industry.
6. Soojin (Former (G)I-DLE)
Following a massive wave of bullying allegations involving her former classmates (including an actress), Soojin left (G)I-DLE in 2021.
Her case was particularly controversial because many fans felt the evidence was inconclusive.
Her solo return in late 2023 and 2024 reignited the debate over “cancel culture” in K-pop.
7. T.O.P (Former BIGBANG)
T.O.P’s marijuana scandal during his military enlistment in 2017 was a major news story across Asia.
The legal fallout and the intense public pressure that followed led him to distance himself from the idol industry, eventually officially leaving BIGBANG to focus on art and solo ventures.
8. Hwasa (MAMAMOO)
Hwasa’s controversies are almost exclusively related to “public decency.”
Her bold stage outfits and provocative performances have sparked multiple debates in South Korea regarding what is appropriate for a female artist.
She has become a symbol of female empowerment by consistently ignoring these criticisms.
9. B.I (Former iKON)
In 2019, B.I left iKON following reports that he had attempted to purchase marijuana and LSD years prior.
Despite the backlash, he successfully transitioned into a respected solo artist and label executive, with the public largely forgiving him after he took responsibility and focused on his music.
10. Seunghan (RIIZE)
A more recent example from the 5th generation. Shortly after his debut, leaked videos and photos from his trainee days (including smoking and dating) led to an indefinite hiatus.
His case sparked a massive “civil war” within the fandom regarding whether idols should be held accountable for their private lives prior to debut.
11. Irene (Red Velvet)
In 2020, Irene faced a “power trip” (gapjil) scandal after a fashion stylist accused her of a verbal outburst.
Irene apologized and took a hiatus, but the incident significantly impacted her “Ice Princess” image.
In 2025 and 2026, she has regained much of her standing through consistent group activities.
12. Wonho (Former MONSTA X)
Wonho left his group in 2019 due to allegations of past debt and drug use.
Although he was eventually cleared of all drug-related charges, he did not rejoin the group.
Instead, he launched a successful solo career, with fans remaining highly vocal about the “unfairness” of his departure.
13. Park Bom (2NE1)
A 2014 report about Park Bom’s attempt to bring prescribed amphetamines (legal in the US but not Korea) into the country through international mail essentially halted 2NE1’s activities.
The lack of understanding regarding mental health at the time made the scandal much worse than it might be considered today.
14. Kangin (Former Super Junior)
Kangin’s career was marked by multiple DUI (Driving Under the Influence) incidents and a physical altercation at a bar.
His repeated offenses led to his eventual departure from Super Junior in 2019, making him a primary example of how “second chances” are handled in K-pop.
15. Hyunjin (Stray Kids)
During the 2021 “bullying wave” in South Korea, Hyunjin was accused of verbal misconduct in middle school.
Unlike some others, he personally met with the accusers to apologize and took a hiatus.
His return and continued success with Stray Kids show a path of “apology and reflection” that the public sometimes accepts.
Understanding the Context of Scandals
In K-pop, the term “controversial” often covers three distinct areas:
- Legal Issues: Drugs, DUI, or financial crimes (usually leads to group removal).
- Social/Moral Issues: Bullying or “power trips” (highly sensitive in South Korean culture).
- Identity/Lifestyle: Dating or “provocative” behavior (often considered scandals by fans, though not by the general public).
As the industry becomes more global in 2026, many fans are pushing for a clearer distinction between an artist’s personal life and their professional conduct.