Former DIA (다이아) member Somyi (안소미) has announced her return to the Korean entertainment industry. While such news wouldn’t be shocking to most, Somyi’s situation is different as she had recently served a prison sentence.
In February 2024, Somyi was sentenced to 18 months in prison for falsely accusing the CEO of her former management company of sexual assault. She appealed the decision, and in June 2024, her case concluded with the court suspending her initial sentence for two years and ordering her to complete 160 hours of community service. Following the suspended sentence, Somyi was released.
Recently, Somyi’s new agency, Moden Berry Korea (MBK), announced the idol’s return to the K-pop scene. The agency also posted photos of Somyi participating in profile image photoshoots on their social media. Speaking to TENASIA, MBK stated, “Somyi is an artist attracting attention for her consistent growth and distinctive presence,” adding that she is “currently considering various content opportunities and activities.”
One of these activities, announced earlier this month, involves the production of a new boy group, tentatively named Earth Boys. MBK revealed, “Somyi will be involved in all aspects of the debut project for the new boy group, including music and performance production, concept planning, and visual directing.” The group is expected to debut sometime in 2028.
Unfortunately, Somyi’s imprisonment isn’t her only controversy. Before her imprisonment, Somyi made her debut on a streaming platform, producing NSFW and mature content. Fans were left disappointed upon discovering that the former girl group member had become a broadcast jockey (BJ) for adult content on PandaTV. For those unfamiliar, the platform is known primarily for its raunchy, adult-oriented material. She has since retired from PandaTV and is no longer streaming on the platform.
Given the nature of the Korean entertainment industry, which is known for its strong cancel culture, many fans are questioning whether redebuting is the right move for her, particularly as she has only recently completed a prison sentence. What do you think?
Source: Koreaboo
Nakhla Sabrina contributed to this article
