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| ▲ Rapper Microdot speaks at the release showcase for his new EP "Darkside" held at the Art Tree Theater in Guro-gu, Seoul, on June 24, 2024. In 2018, Microdot halted his activities after being embroiled in a controversy involving his parents' unpaid debts. (Yonhap) |
SEOUL, June 24 (Yonhap) -- "First and foremost, I sincerely apologize to those who have been hurt and affected by my parents and me," said rapper Microdot as he bowed his head during a public appearance on the 24th at the Art Tree Theater in Guro-gu, Seoul.
This marked his first official appearance in six years following the 2018 debt scandal involving his parents.
Microdot expressed his nervousness, saying, "I am very anxious to greet you all again like this," and reflected on his time away, emphasizing that he spent it in deep reflection and making efforts to make amends.
In the 1990s, Microdot's parents ran a dairy farm in Jecheon, North Chungcheong Province, borrowing over 400 million won from relatives and acquaintances between 1990 and 1998. They then fled to New Zealand in May 1998 without repaying the debts, which later came to light, igniting the "debt scandal" involving celebrities' families.
Microdot, who had been rising in popularity on various TV entertainment programs, halted his activities in 2018 due to the controversy. Although he continued to release new music from 2020, he had not appeared in front of the media until now. His parents were convicted of fraud, with his father receiving a three-year sentence and his mother a one-year sentence, both later deported to New Zealand.
Standing before the press with a tense expression and a short haircut, Microdot apologized to the victims once again, bowing 90 degrees. He appeared emotional, turning away briefly to wipe his tears.
He explained, "I first met with each victim individually to apologize. This took six years." He admitted, "I deeply regret my initial response to the situation. It was very foolish. I am truly sorry."
Microdot mentioned that he has compensated or reached settlements with nine out of ten identified victims. He detailed, "Out of the 13 individuals identified in the initial investigation, 10 victims were confirmed through the first trial. I compensated six victims with 210 million won, and thankfully, we reached settlements. In the second trial, I settled with one more victim. After my parents served their sentences, I, along with my agency's representative, settled with two more victims in 2023. We are still working on a settlement with the last remaining victim."
Regarding his parents, he said, "I keep in contact with them often. While I have heard their side of the story, meeting with each victim allowed me to understand the incident more deeply over time. My parents also regret their actions now."
Addressing his initial mishandling of the controversy, Microdot said, "Looking back, I should have been more astute, but I was not, and I panicked. I am truly sorry."
Reflecting on his personal growth, he shared, "These challenging times have taught me a lot and helped me grow. I have come to realize the preciousness of life. This period has been foundational not only for my present but also for my future and my music."
The event was held to celebrate the release of his new mini-album "Darkside." The album, as the name suggests, explores a different side of Microdot's personality, contrasting with the positive energy he previously displayed on television.
The EP includes five tracks, such as the title track "Unchanged," "Pray For My Enemies," and "Alright." The title track features a catchy hook and conveys Microdot's unwavering convictions.
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