Dancer and singer Poppin Hyun-joon acknowledged the controversy that he repeatedly made inappropriate remarks and behavior toward students he taught and will step down from his professorship at Baekseok Arts University.
On the 13th, Poppin Hyun-joon said on social media (SNS), "I offer an apology and my position as a professor regarding the controversy recently raised online about Baekseok Arts University's Department of Practical Dance," adding, "As an educator, I created a stern atmosphere with inappropriate words and actions, and I am reflecting deeply on causing sexual humiliation regardless of my intent."
He added, "I want to make it clear once again that there was never any impure intent."
Poppin Hyun-joon also said, "As a consequence, I resign today from my professorship at Baekseok Arts University's Department of Practical Dance," adding, "Thank you for everything. I once again offer my deepest apology to the students."
Earlier, a poster who identified as a student in the Department of Practical Dance at Baekseok Arts University claimed on an online community that Professor A's class involved continuous profanity, inappropriate remarks, and the creation of a threatening atmosphere. The poster also said Professor A left the classroom during class on multiple occasions.
As the controversy grew, Poppin Hyun-joon acknowledged that he was the professor in question. Poppin Hyun-joon, known as the "b-boy legend," is regarded as a figure symbolizing Korea's street dance and popping dance. Having swept various global dance competitions, he is considered a living legend in the worldwide popping scene. He married traditional Korean musician Park Ae-ri in 2011, and they have one daughter.