Gumi City Ordered to Pay ₩125 Million for Canceling Lee Seung-hwan Concert

In a significant ruling that underscores the importance of artistic freedom, a South Korean court has ordered the city of Gumi to pay 125 million won in damages for unjustly canceling a concert by popular singer Lee Seung-hwan. The concert, scheduled just days after the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk Yeol, was called off by the Gumi City authorities who demanded Lee sign a pledge promising not to engage in any political speech or actions during his performance. This demand, seen by many as an attempt to stifle dissent and control artistic expression, was met with resistance from Lee and his agency, Dream Factory.

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The court ruled that Gumi City is liable for damages for canceling Lee Seung-hwan's concert, which was scheduled for December 12th, two days after the emergency martial law and the impeachment of former President Yoon Suk Yeol, citing his refusal to sign a pledge not to engage in political activities.

Lee Seung-hwan, known for his outspokenness and past criticisms of the government, refused to sign the pledge, offering instead a written assurance that he would not engage in political activism during the show. However, Gumi City officials proceeded to cancel the venue's rental agreement just two days before the concert, citing vague concerns about 'safety' and potential 'political misunderstandings.' This arbitrary decision not only caused financial losses for Lee and his agency but also deeply disappointed the 100 fans who had already purchased tickets.

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The court acknowledged the illegality of the unilateral cancellation of the performance, the coercion of the pledge, and Gumi City's irresponsibility in not taking safety measures. Most of our claims were accepted.

The court's decision recognized the illegality of Gumi City's actions, stating that the demand for a political pledge was unlawful and that the subsequent cancellation was a violation of Lee's rights. While the court awarded damages to Lee, his agency, and the ticket holders, it notably did not hold the mayor of Gumi, Kim Jang-ho, personally liable. Lee, however, has vowed to appeal the ruling, expressing his determination to fight for the protection of artists' conscience and freedom of expression against what he described as the 'vulgar exercise of administrative power.'

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Despite this, the court ruled that Mayor Kim Jang-ho could not be held responsible. This is a disappointing outcome.

This case highlights a recurring tension in South Korea between administrative authority and the fundamental rights of artists and citizens. The Gumi City government's actions, particularly in the sensitive political climate following Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment, suggest an overreach of power aimed at suppressing any form of perceived opposition. Lee Seung-hwan's stance and the court's partial vindication send a strong message that artistic expression, even when critical of the political establishment, must be protected. The fight for justice and the defense of artistic freedom, as Lee Seung-hwan stated, will continue.

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I will not stop here. I will appeal and seek justice to the end. I will protect the conscience of musicians and freedom of art, which vulgar administrative powers must never infringe upon.