South Korean trot singer Kim Ho-joong is set to be released on parole on June 30, an aide confirmed Tuesday, following his conviction for a serious hit-and-run incident.
This early release comes approximately five months ahead of his original schedule, after serving 767 days of his prison sentence for the offense.
The incident that led to his conviction occurred on May 9, 2024. Prosecutors stated that Kim Ho-joong crashed into a taxi in an oncoming lane in Seoul’s affluent Gangnam district while driving under the influence (DUI). He subsequently fled the scene. Investigators further revealed that Kim Ho-joong later directed his manager to falsely confess to the accident. He also reportedly bought more alcohol from a convenience store, an apparent attempt to bolster a “hip-flask defense” — a strategy to mitigate DUI charges by claiming alcohol was consumed only after the incident.
Following these events, a South Korean court sentenced Kim Ho-joong to two years and six months in prison. His original release was slated for November.
Kim Ho-joong began his incarceration at the Seoul Detention Center before his transfer to the Soman Correctional Institution in Yeoju, south of Seoul, in August 2024.
Eligibility for parole under South Korean correctional regulations typically requires inmates to have served a minimum of one-third of their sentence.
While Kim Ho-joong’s initial parole application in December was denied, correctional authorities confirmed his recent approval by the parole board, citing his exemplary conduct throughout his incarceration.
As part of his parole terms, Kim Ho-joong will remain under strict supervised probation. He is required to obtain court approval for any change of residence or international travel.
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