K-pop Star Hwasa Faces Investigation Over Controversial On-Stage Gesture

K-pop sensation Hwasa, a member of MAMAMOO, has been brought in for questioning by South Korean authorities following allegations of a sexually suggestive performance during a concert at Sungkyunkwan University earlier this year.

Photo by Han Myung-Gu/WireImage via Getty Images

The investigation was initiated based on a complaint by the Student Parent's Rights Protection Union, who deemed Hwasa's performance during the May 12 concert as "indecent" and evoking "perverted sexual relationships." Hwasa is said to have performed her song "Don't" with rapper Loco during the concert, where she allegedly licked her fingers and made gestures around her groin area. This moment was captured during the filming of "Dancing Queens of the Road," a variety show featuring female K-pop idols.

Hwasa, aged 28, has been fully cooperating with the investigation, as confirmed by her management company, P NATION. She addressed the incident during a recent appearance on singer Sung Si-kyung’s YouTube channel, mentioning that although she typically doesn't pay much attention to hate comments, the comments this time were particularly malicious.

Authorities are currently deliberating whether to press charges against the K-pop star. If found guilty, she could face a maximum sentence of one year in jail or a fine of up to 5 million won, equivalent to approximately $3,800 USD.