G-Dragon Faces Criticism for Thanking Yang Hyun Suk in ‘2024 MAMA Awards’ Speech
On November 23, at the 2024 MAMA Awards Chapter 2 held at the Kyocera Dome in Osaka, Japan, G-Dragon delivered a performance and received the Music Visionary of the Year award.
In his acceptance speech, G-Dragon said, “I first stood on the MAMA stage in 2007, and now I’m here again for my comeback stage after seven years. I’m grateful for this meaningful day and for receiving an award that will leave such good memories.”
He continued, “I’d like to thank Yang Hyun Suk and the YG family, our new partners at Galaxy Corporation and The Black Label, and all those who supported me. Of course, I deeply appreciate my beloved members and VIPs (BIGBANG’s fan club), who made this triumphant return possible.”
The controversy centers on his mention of Yang Hyun Suk. While it is true that YG Entertainment played a significant role in G-Dragon’s growth and artistic success, critics argue that acknowledging Yang—who has been embroiled in controversies including overseas gambling and drug-related scandals—was unnecessary in a public speech.
Netizens expressed their disappointment, commenting, “I can’t understand this,” “Is he ignoring all the victims?” “Why did he have to mention Yang Hyun Suk?” and “Yang still has multiple trials ongoing.”
In 2019, Yang Hyun Suk was fined 15 million KRW for illegal overseas gambling. He had been accused of gambling 24 times in Las Vegas and Macau, involving billions of won. Additionally, he is currently facing trials for allegedly covering up drug investigations related to singer B.I and for tax evasion regarding luxury watch transactions.
Meanwhile, G-Dragon recently made his long-awaited solo comeback on October 31 with the single “POWER,” marking his return after 7 years and 4 months.
