Korean Canadian singer faces lawsuit over alleged political activity as foreign national

Korean Canadian singer JK Kim Dong-uk, also known as John Kim, said via social media on Saturday that his freedom of speech is being violated, after an internet user filed a lawsuit accusing him of engaging in political activities as a foreign national.

Kim has openly supported President Yoon Suk Yeol, who was formally arrested Sunday in connection to his declaration of martial law last month, and has called for the withdrawal of his impeachment, both online and offline.

Under the Immigration Control Act, foreign nationals residing in South Korea are prohibited from participating in political activities unless otherwise permitted by law. Violators may face orders from the Ministry of Justice to cease political activities or even deportation, though such actions are rare.

“This is the first time in my life I’ve been accused,” Kim wrote on social media. “Did I hold a large-scale rally on Jan. 3? That must be a mistake.” Kim has posted a photo of himself attending a rally in opposition to Yoon's arrest in front of the presidential residence in Hannam-dong, Seoul, on Jan. 3.

“I’m curious when South Korea, a free nation, became a country that suppresses freedom of expression,” he added.

On Friday, an internet user revealed on social platform X that JK Kim Dong-uk is expected to be accused of violating the prohibition on political activities by foreigners.

“JK Kim Dong-uk, who renounced his Korean citizenship and acquired Canadian citizenship, is considered a foreign national. According to Article 17 of the Immigration Control Act, foreigners residing in Korea are prohibited from engaging in political activities, and violation could result in penalties,” the online commenter said.

The commenter alleged that Kim repeatedly posted opposition to Yoon’s impeachment on his social media and said that the singer organized a large rally near the presidential residence on Jan. 3, sharing related content online.

Kim, who was born in Seoul, immigrated to Canada in 1992 during his sophomore year of college. While his music career is based in South Korea, his Canadian citizenship exempted him from mandatory military service and denies him voting rights in the country.

The singer has emerged as one of the most vocal supporters of Yoon in the entertainment industry, alongside singer Kim Heung-gook and actor Choi Joon-yong.

JK Kim Dong-uk has consistently criticized calls for Yoon’s impeachment, stating on social media, “The Democratic Party lacks democracy, the judiciary lacks justice, and intellectuals lack knowledge.”

After an initial temporary arrest warrant was issued for Yoon on Wednesday, Kim wrote, “The will of patriotic citizens defending freedom within the framework of the law in a constitutional state will resonate worldwide, standing in stark contrast to the pro-North Korea forces who have lost reason and disregard the law.”

The controversy has drawn attention to another celebrity, IU, who has come under fire from far-right internet users for what they say is her political involvement.

Last month, IU, who is a Korean citizen, prepaid for food and drinks at coffee shops near Yeouido in Seoul, the site of impeachment rallies against Yoon following his Dec. 3 martial law declaration. The food was distributed to rally attendees on a first-come, first-served basis.

IU’s social media accounts have since been flooded with both criticism and support from users who are divided over her actions.