Kim Hojung, a 35-year-old singer, was released on parole yesterday after serving approximately 80% of his two-year-and-six-month sentence for drunk driving and hit-and-run. According to the Ministry of Justice's parole review, Kim will remain under probation until he completes his full sentence.
**Background: Incident and Sentence**
On May 9, 2024, Kim was involved in a car accident while driving under the influence in Apgujeong-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul. He crashed into a taxi on the opposite side of the road and fled without taking any action. After being identified as the driver through CCTV footage, Kim admitted to the crime 10 days after the incident.
In November 2024, the court sentenced Kim to two years and six months in prison for violating the Act on the Aggravated Punishment of Specific Crimes (Dangerous Driving Causing Injury). The appellate court upheld the original sentence, and Kim gave up his final appeal. He has been serving his sentence since then.
**Return to Society**
Kim's parole comes after he passed the Ministry of Justice's review, which typically requires an inmate to serve at least 60% of their sentence before being considered for preliminary parole review. According to sources, Kim will focus on treatment rather than returning to the entertainment industry due to pre-existing ankle conditions that require surgery and rehabilitation.
In a handwritten letter released in April, Kim expressed his intention to return to music, stating "I will get back on my feet no matter what" and "I will sing." However, it is unclear whether he will pursue a comeback after serving out the remainder of his sentence.