SHINee’s Key Steps Down From Shows Amid ‘Unlicensed Treatment’ Controversy

SHINee’s Key addressed the “injection aunt” controversy, apologizing and confirming he received treatment at home on a few occasions, while stating he believed the person was a licensed doctor. He will step down from current TV appearances and scheduled activities.

According to SM’s statement, Key first met the person at a hospital in Seoul’s Gangnam after an acquaintance’s recommendation, believing she was a doctor. He continued treatment at the clinic and, on a few occasions, received care at home when visiting the hospital was difficult.

Public scrutiny intensified after online posts connected the practitioner to Key’s personal life. Key apologized on Instagram, denied prior knowledge of any lack of licensure, and said he was shocked by newly surfaced information. SM also apologized for the delayed response and confirmed Key will withdraw from current programs and schedules.

• Official stance: Key believed the person was a doctor when first introduced.
• Flashpoint: A few at-home treatments raised heightened legal and public concerns.
• Update: Key will step down from current TV appearances; next steps depend on further clarification.

## 【KStarLoud Insight】 The story gained rapid attention because it sits at the intersection of celebrity credibility and the legality of medical practice. Even if an artist claims they were unaware, public discussion quickly shifts to questions of due diligence and accountability. The at-home treatment angle also heightens sensitivity, as it overlaps with broader social concerns about unlicensed medical procedures. At this stage, publicly available details largely rely on the agency statement and the artist’s apology, framing the issue around a knowledge gap and the decision to step back from schedules. What happens next will depend on investigative findings and whether additional verifiable information emerges. The broader takeaway is the need for clearer, more accountable health-management processes in the entertainment industry to prevent reputational and legal risks from escalating.