Jessi Under Police Investigation as Suspect in Fan Assault Case

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Singer Jessi is under investigation by the police as a suspect in a fan assault case.

The incident, which took place in Seoul’s Gangnam District on the 29th of last month, has stirred ongoing controversy regarding Jessi's handling of the situation.

Seoul Gangnam Police Station summoned Jessi on the 16th for questioning.

Arriving at the station around 10:05 PM, Jessi stated, "I hope the person who hit [the fan] is found quickly and punished."

She also denied any connection to the assailant, saying, "I had never seen the perpetrator before that day. I feel very sorry for the victim."

The incident unfolded on the morning of the 29th of last month in Apgujeong, Gangnam District.

A fan approached Jessi for a photo, but was allegedly assaulted by a man, A, who appeared to be part of Jessi’s entourage.

Initially, Jessi attempted to stop the assault but later left the scene.

CCTV footage released on JTBC's Incident Captain shows Jessi's group initially trying to intervene in the altercation.

However, they later left the area, including Jessi herself.

The victim, a minor of 18, expressed disappointment, stating, "While someone was being hit, I’m not sure if [Jessi] left because she didn’t want to get involved, but I’m very disappointed."

In addition to the man accused of the assault, four individuals, including Jessi, a producer, and other members of the group, have been named in the police report and are being investigated for assault and related charges.

Earlier, on the 11th, the police questioned a producer who was at the scene as a suspect.

Following the controversy, Jessi issued an apology via social media on the 12th, stating, "I was caught off guard by the sudden situation and failed to properly care for the fan."

She also assured fans that she was working to ensure the perpetrator faced appropriate consequences.

However, she has now been formally questioned by the police.

Industry insiders have weighed in on the issue, with one entertainment industry expert stating, "It’s important to find a balance between protecting the privacy of celebrities and ensuring fan service. This incident brings to light the need for healthy boundaries between celebrities and their fans."

Another expert emphasized, "Given the social responsibility and influence that celebrities hold, it’s essential they receive proper education on how to handle such situations."

Fan reactions have been mixed.

Some are accepting Jessi’s explanation, while others have expressed disappointment.

Social media is abuzz with debates, with some saying, "Celebrities are human and can be shocked in sudden situations," while others argue, "It’s a problem that the fan wasn’t protected."

The case has sparked a broader conversation about the relationship between celebrities and their fans, as well as the social responsibility of public figures.

The outcome of the police investigation will determine Jessi and the involved parties' legal accountability, and the incident is likely to have a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.