Kim Ho-joong
Kim Ho-joong is a South Korean classical crossover singer. He came to prominence after a fourth-place finish in TV Chosun show Mr. Trot. During his military service, he served as a public service worker and was discharged on June 9, 2022.
Philanthropy
On March 22, 2022, Kim donated 500 pieces of Geumsan Aesthetic Red Ginseng products to Sky Garden under the Welfare Foundation of Love, a social welfare company.On February 23, 2023, Kim donated 50 million won to help in the 2023 Turkey–Syria earthquake through UNICEF Korea Committee.
Hit-and-run
In May 2024, South Korean trot singer Kim Ho-joong faced multiple controversies, including allegations of past school bullying and involvement in a hit-and-run incident while driving under the influence. A former classmate from Gyeongbuk Arts High School accused Kim of physical assault and coercion during their school years, claiming the abuse led to his withdrawal from the institution. Kim was involved in a collision with a taxi in Seoul's Gangnam district on May 9, 2024. He fled the scene and later instructed his manager to assume responsibility for the accident. Police investigations uncovered a recording of Kim directing his manager to falsely confess, leading to his arrest on charges related to the hit-and-run and subsequent cover-up. These incidents have significantly impacted Kim's career, resulting in canceled performances and potential legal repercussions. Police have secured a phone recording of trot singer Kim Ho-joong asking his manager to take the blame for the accident that occurred on May 9.Ambassadorship
- First Asian Ambassador to the Luciano Pavarotti Foundation and the Andrea Bocelli Foundation