By Kwon Mee-yoo
Staff reporter
Singer MC Mong, 31, is suspected of having dodged mandatory military service by intentionally having healthy teeth extracted.
Police said they have been conducting an investigation of the singer following an allegation that he illegally avoided military service.
According to the police, the singer had removed some 10 teeth, mostly molars, and was exempted from compulsory military service in 2004 due to dental problems.
"We had planned to summon him Thursday, but he requested time to consult with his lawyers," a police officer said. "We will question him next week to hear explanations on why he had so many of his teeth pulled out."
MCMong, whose real name is Shin Dong-hyun, is a popular singer and actor currently appearing on KBS's variety show "1 Night 2 Days" on Sundays.
Police finished an inquiry into the dentist who took care of his teeth.
They also asked for experts' opinions on the dental X-rays, but could not definitely conclude whether it was for medical purposes or not.
However, IS Entermedia, the singer's agency, immediately refuted the allegation of dodging military service.
"He was exempted from military service because of his dental problems, but there was nothing illegal about it. His exemption from military service is legitimate," it said in a press release.
The agency's judicial team said they will clear up the allegations during police questioning and consider taking legal action against the local broadcasting station that first reported the news.
MCMong made his debut in 1998 as a member of the hip hop band People Crew and gained popularity after starring in the hit sitcom series "Non-Stop 4" in 2003.
The following year, he released first solo single "180 Degrees." He also collaborated with other singers such as Park Hyo Shin, Ivy, and MayBee. His latest album "Humanimal" was released in July 2009.
SOURCE:
The Korea Times