K-pop stars Ivy, Gummy, Tei and Chungha deny affiliation with South Korean church linked to coronavirus spread
- The K-pop stars and their agencies are all fighting back against rumours they are linked to the Shincheonji Church of Jesus
- Other Korean celebrities including actor Lee Dong-wook, actress Nam Gyu-ri and comedians Yoo Jae-suk and Jung Hyung-don also denied any connection
By Kwak Yeon-soo
As South Korea battles with the coronavirus, rumours have surfaced that some K-pop stars and celebrities are affiliated with the Shincheonji Church of Jesus, a cult linked to a massive surge in infections in the country.
Health authorities have confirmed that a large number of Covid-19 infections occurred during Shincheonji services, and many people who came into close contact with those who attended them have also contracted the virus.
K-pop stars and actors who have been linked to the cult are now fighting back against the rumours. Singers Ivy and Gummy expressed outrage at allegations that they were Shincheonji members.
“It’s regrettable that unfounded rumours are obscuring important matters during turbulent times,” Ivy wrote on Instagram. “I can’t laugh about this rumour because it’s so ridiculous. Be careful of rumours. A world ridden with fake news.” The post was deleted a few hours later.
