K-netizens have been giving dividing responses to Lee Hi (이하이) for openly expressing her gratitude to B.I (김한빈) for featuring in her new single, in light of his ongoing illegal drug case.
Earlier on 9th September (Thursday), the singer held a live broadcast to commemorate the release of her third studio album, “4 Only,” through Naver NOW.
For those who are curious, their collab track, titled “Saviour”, was released as a pre-release single earlier on 3rd September. B.I also stars in the music video, proving his friendship with Lee Hi is still going strong. The two former YG Entertainment label-mates have known each other for years, dating back to their junior years in the entertainment company.
During the broadcast, Lee Hi said, “I would like to take this opportunity to thank B.I for featuring (in my album). I also said in an interview that I considered myself a loyal friend, but that guy is also a very loyal friend.”
The 25-year-old soloist also left a video shout out to the “Love Scenario” hit-maker, saying, “Hanbin-ah (B.I’s real name), thank you so much. Because of you, we were able to release a good music video. Thank you.”
Lee Hi’s heartwarming gesture during the live session has in turn incited backlash from netizens. In this case, the “K-pop Star” alum was criticised for being “daring” enough to express her gratitude for B.I in public. They pointed out that Lee Hi’s action could break people’s awareness about drugs abuse and may cause people to forget his past crimes.
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On top of that, there were also some who advised the “Holo” singer to be more mindful with her words and to not publicly show her support for the male idol, despite how close the two of them are. Many of them believe that B.I’s involvement with drug abuse shouldn’t be excused and people need to be aware of the dangers of illegal substances.
Speaking of B.I, it has been reported that the Seoul Central District Court has officially come up with its sentencing decision regarding the former iKON member’s charges of illegal drug use. During the first sentencing trial which was held earlier today (Friday, 10th September), the court sentenced B.I to a probationary period of 4 years.
If he commits any additional drug-related crimes within this probationary period, the court will have the authority to sentence him to at least 3 years in prison. In addition, B.I also faces a fine of 1.5 million KRW (~ RM5,315), 80 hours of community service, and also 40 hours of drug education courses.
The District Court stated during the hearing, “What he did cannot be regarded as a crime that occurred due to simple curiosity, and celebrity drug usage has a great impact on society by weakening adolescents’ awareness of drugs.”
Sources: Kpop Starz, AllKpop (1)(2), Soompi.
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