Singer Kim Ho-joong [Newsis]
Singer Kim Ho-joong [Newsis]

Singer Kim Ho-joong, who was released on parole after serving time on charges of drunk driving and fleeing the scene of an accident, has shared an update on his condition.

According to StarNews on Wednesday, Kim underwent surgery on his right ankle at a hospital last August.

A chronic ankle condition had worsened during his time in prison. After his release, he had a detailed examination before proceeding with the operation and is currently focused on rehabilitation, combining physical therapy with his recovery.

Kim is also reportedly planning to have surgery on his left ankle following the procedure on his right.

Kim appeared on a variety program in 2024, where he visited an orthopedic clinic and complained of persistent ankle pain. At the time, he told the doctor, "My left ankle has always been bad. I badly sprained it while playing sports in elementary school, and it became a chronic problem after that."

After examining Kim's ankle, the doctor said, "When you sprain your ankle and it gets knocked around, bone spurs develop. The ligaments are weak, and the bone growth is causing a collision — that's what's causing the pain." The doctor added, "This is not the ankle of a 32-year-old. Surgery is necessary."

As a result, the timeline for Kim's return to activities remains unclear. His agency said there are "no plans for activities yet" and that he will "focus solely on recovering his health this year."

On May 9, 2024, Kim drove under the influence on Apgujeong-ro in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, crossed the center line and collided with a taxi traveling in the opposite direction, then fled the scene and instructed his manager, identified only by his surname Jang, to turn himself in on Kim's behalf. Kim was indicted on charges including aggravated hit-and-run under the Act on the Aggravated Punishment of Specific Crimes and was sentenced to two years and six months in prison.

The agency head, identified only by his surname Lee, and a former division head, identified only by his surname Jeon, were also indicted for instructing manager Jang to turn himself in as part of a cover-up. They were sentenced to two years and one year and six months in prison, respectively. Manager Jang received a one-year sentence, suspended for two years.

Kim's original release date had been Nov. 24, but he was released early on June 30 after passing a parole review by the Ministry of Justice.


husn7@heraldcorp.com