On August 29, a video titled “Profile photo shoot after 10 yearsㅣKang In #profile photo shoot” was uploaded on Kangin’s YouTube channel.
In the video, Kangin appeared looking clean-cut and said, “The reason I called the production team today is that I didn’t want you to think lightly of me just because I kept showing you scenes of me eating sundae soup,” he joked as he headed to the profile photo shoot.
He also expressed his awkwardness and nervousness, saying, “It still feels strange; it’s my first time taking photos in 10 years, and I can’t shake off the nerves.”
After reviewing the shots, Kangin felt embarrassed at how he looked trying to be cool, saying, “I can’t stand to look at myself,” but then added, “But the cheek heart is cute, my family will like it,” as he successfully wrapped up the shoot.
Kangin debuted with Super Junior in 2005 and gained popularity through his performances and appearances on variety shows. However, in 2009, he caused controversy due to drunk-driving and a minor accident with a taxi, leading to a period of self-reflection before enlisting in the military. After his discharge, he returned to activities but got involved in a second DUI in 2016, followed by a physical altercation, which led to further legal troubles.
In 2019, when his name was mentioned in connection with the so-called Jung Joon-young group chat scandal, Kangin eventually announced his voluntary departure from Super Junior, expressing only regret toward his fellow members.
Although he left the group, he renewed his contract with SM Entertainment last year. During an appearance on a YouTube channel at the time, Kangin expressed his hesitance about returning to the industry, saying, “I don’t think it’s up to me to decide. Even saying ‘if I get the chance’ is difficult. I haven’t even forgiven myself. I was immature. I made the same mistake repeatedly, and I knew it was wrong then and still do now”.
Then, in May of this year, the fan communication platform DearU Bubble announced Kangin’s return, marking his first official activity in about five years since leaving Super Junior.
With the news of his profile photo shoot and his comeback, fans have been flooding him with support. International fans have commented, saying, “I’m so happy to see you again, oppa,” “Thank you for coming back,” “I hope to see you more in the media,” and “We know you’ve been reflecting for 5 years, and you deserve praise.”
It seems that after 15 years of self-reflection, fans have forgiven the male idol despite his various controversies, including drunk-driving.
On the other hand, while the issue of drunk-driving is taken rather seriously in Korea, especially in the recent case of BTS’s Suga, international media believe that Korean media is being too harsh.
Source: Nate
