Seungri Denies Rumors of Doing Business in China & Expresses Frustration Over ‘Defeat’ Mockery: “Is It Fun to Insult Me?”

On April 3, former BIGBANG member Seungri clarified in an interview with Ilgan Sports, saying, “The rumors that I am leaving Korea are not true. I am still living in Korea, and when I go abroad, it’s to meet with acquaintances or attend personal events like weddings—there are no business plans whatsoever.”

Regarding previous speculations that he was preparing to open a club overseas, Seungri made it clear, “People have said that I know someone from a large conglomerate, but I don’t. I have many overseas acquaintances, so I can meet them, but I’m not planning to start any business.”

Two years after his release from prison, Seungri stated that he had not engaged in any economic activities. He shared, “I’m just living well with my family,” adding, “It seems that people enjoy criticizing and insulting me. They don’t call me Seungri anymore; they call me ‘defeat’ as if it’s some kind of meme.”

Seungri apologized to the public for causing fatigue, stating, “I will be more careful in my private life to avoid any controversies, and I will show a more responsible attitude.”

Earlier, Seungri has reportedly left South Korea to pursue opportunities in China’s entertainment industry. According to industry insiders, Seungri departed Korea last month and has no intentions of resuming his career in his home country.

Seungri Quietly Departs Korea for China

On April 2, an insider told MyDaily, “Seungri had been staying in Korea until recently but boarded a flight to China last month. While he hasn’t disclosed specific plans, he remains highly interested in the entertainment business and is exploring various opportunities.” The source emphasized that Seungri remains highly invested in the entertainment business and is leveraging connections built during his earlier career.

Seungri was last spotted in Korea during a private gathering with entertainment figures and business acquaintances in Cheongdam-dong in late February. Reports also claim he’s maintaining close ties with prominent former associates, including a chaebol heir.

The insider added, “Of course, he has no plans to resume activities in Korea. He’s aware of the public’s harsh scrutiny and divided opinion, so he doesn’t intend to return to his previous career. However, he’s currently devising plans for entertainment ventures, leveraging his connections to the fullest.”

Despite severing ties with his former Big Bang members, those around him suggest he’s still in contact with other influential individuals from his past. One source said, “While it’s true he has cut ties with BIGBANG members, he remains on good terms with people he was once close to. Naturally, he has been discussing business opportunities with them, and it’s understood that he left for China to explore new ventures.”

Club Sightings in China Spark Outrage

Though Seungri is staying out of the Korean spotlight, his recent activities in China have stirred controversy. On March 19 (local time), Chinese media outlets like Sohu.com reported that he was seen entering a nightclub in Hangzhou, flanked by bodyguards. According to witnesses, he kept his head down and did not speak, but fans still flocked to the scene.

The response from Chinese netizens was swift and scathing. Comments included:

• “Foreign criminals should be banned from entering.”
• “Why is someone like this allowed into China?”
• “He’s gained a lot of weight since his Big Bang days.”
• “He even has bodyguards?”

This isn’t the first time Seungri’s post-prison behavior has triggered public backlash. Since his release in February 2023 after serving 1.5 years in prison for charges including prostitution, embezzlement, and illegal filming, the public has scrutinized his every move. Last year, he faced criticism for casually performing BIGBANG songs at private overseas events and for joking about bringing G-Dragon to Cambodia.

Despite these controversies, it seems Seungri remains focused on business over image. But with both Korean and Chinese netizens condemning his reappearance, one question remains — is any comeback truly possible for Seungri?