Korean-American singer Yoo Seung-jun has broken his four-year silence on YouTube, delivering an emotional response to critics who continue to condemn him over draft-dodging allegations that have kept him banned from South Korea for 23 years. The entertainer, who was once at the pinnacle of Korean pop music, uploaded his first video since May 2021, marking a dramatic return to social media after years of legal battles and public controversy.
The video, titled "Yoo Seung Jun comeback? BREAKING NEWS! Yoo Seung Jun aka YSJ has returned?" was posted on his official YouTube channel on Sunday. The clip features footage of Yoo surfing with his son at iconic California beaches including Malibu and Huntington Beach, as well as scenes from his nighttime performances across the United States. The seemingly casual content takes a serious turn as Yoo addresses his critics directly.
In an emotional moment during the video, Yoo grew visibly upset while confronting those who continue to judge him. "You don't know me, and I don't know you. Who are you to judge me? Do you keep every promise you make?" he said, his voice breaking with emotion. "I can't speak about this without tears," he added, highlighting the personal toll the decades-long controversy has taken on him.
Yoo's troubles began in 2002 when he left South Korea for the United States before completing his mandatory military service, subsequently obtaining U.S. citizenship. Having debuted in 1997 and quickly rising to become one of Korea's biggest pop stars, his departure sparked accusations of draft-dodging. The Korean Ministry of Justice responded by imposing a ban on his entry into the country, effectively ending his career in his homeland.
The singer's legal battle to return to South Korea has been ongoing for nearly a decade. In 2015, he applied for an F-4 visa at the Korean Consulate General in Los Angeles, but his request was denied. Despite winning two court rulings that challenged this decision, the consulate rejected his visa application again last year, prompting him to initiate a third legal battle against the authorities.
During court proceedings, Korean government officials have consistently argued against allowing Yoo's return. At the first hearing in March, the Ministry of Justice maintained that permitting his entry could harm the public interest. During the second hearing on June 26, officials reiterated that the entry ban falls within the minister's authority, specifically citing concerns about potential social unrest if Yoo were allowed to return to Korea.
In his YouTube video, Yoo directly addressed speculation about his motives for wanting to return to Korea. "Some people think I want to come back to Korea to make money, as if someone is waiting for me with stacks of cash. That is not the case," he explained. "I only wanted to enter for the sake of my honor," he emphasized, making it clear that his fight is about restoring his reputation rather than pursuing financial opportunities.
The singer also distanced himself from recent fan support, dismissing reports about a statement issued by his supporters. "I don't even know who submitted that declaration," Yoo said, suggesting he prefers to handle his situation independently rather than relying on organized fan campaigns. This latest YouTube appearance represents his most public statement in years and signals his determination to continue fighting for his right to return to his homeland.
