Actor Lee Yi Kyung is preparing to return to public-facing entertainment activities with an upcoming radio appearance, even as controversy surrounding his private life continues to unfold. According to a report released by OSEN on February 7, the actor is scheduled to appear as a special DJ on the February 12 broadcast of SBS PowerFM’s long-running radio program “Cultwo Show.” This appearance marks his first new broadcast engagement since he stepped down from several variety programs amid the ongoing dispute.

Lee Yi Kyung had recently withdrawn from the popular entertainment program “Hangout with Yoo,” along with other variety shows, after allegations related to his personal life began circulating online. The controversy initially emerged when a woman identifying herself as German, referred to in reports as “A,” publicly released what she claimed were private conversations between herself and the actor. According to her statements, the two had exchanged messages beginning around October 20, and she alleged that the conversations later became sexually explicit in nature.

A further claimed that certain expressions used in the messages implied sexual assault, which significantly intensified public scrutiny and criticism. As the allegations gained attention, A stated that her decision to reveal the conversations was not motivated by financial gain, but rather by a desire to expose what she described as Lee Yi Kyung’s true character. She later revealed what she claimed was her main account and continued to post additional explanations and materials in support of her claims.

In response to these allegations, Lee Yi Kyung’s agency issued a strong rebuttal and announced that it would pursue firm legal action. His representatives denied the accusations and released additional information related to A, maintaining that the claims were false. The agency also emphasized that there had been no form of settlement between the parties, directly countering online speculation that the matter had been resolved privately.

Lee Yi Kyung himself addressed the situation by stating that he had completed questioning as the complainant and had formally submitted his position regarding the rumors to the authorities. He confirmed that he had filed complaints on multiple charges, including blackmail and defamation based on false information. He further stated that he was prepared to pursue legal action internationally if necessary, underscoring his determination to clear his name.

Despite the legal response from Lee Yi Kyung’s side, A continued to post new revelations and counterclaims. She asserted that while their conversations initially began on amicable terms, the tone of the messages gradually shifted and became more explicit over time. On December 12, she released what she described as the earliest messages exchanged between herself and the actor. Later, on December 31, she posted images that she claimed were taken from Lee Yi Kyung’s KakaoTalk profile, along with photographs she said had been sent to her during their interactions.

Lee Yi Kyung also addressed the controversy publicly during an awards appearance. After receiving the AAA Best Choice Award at the Asia Artist Awards, he commented on the situation by stating that the suspect was currently sending apologies and requests for leniency to the company’s official email. He added that he believed the individual responsible would eventually be caught, reinforcing his confidence in the legal process.

As a result of the controversy, Lee Yi Kyung made the decision to step down from “Hangout with Yoo” and other variety programs he had been regularly appearing on. This withdrawal was widely interpreted as an effort to avoid further public backlash while the allegations were being addressed. However, he did continue to participate in previously scheduled activities, including appearances on programs such as “I’m Solo,” “Trouble Travel,” and “Brave Detectives.” Notably, during this period, he did not take on any new variety show projects.

The upcoming appearance on “Cultwo Show” as a special DJ therefore represents a cautious step forward in his broadcast career amid ongoing uncertainty. While the legal dispute has not yet reached a definitive conclusion, the radio appearance signals a partial resumption of his entertainment activities. Public reaction remains divided, with some awaiting the outcome of the legal proceedings before forming a judgment, while others continue to scrutinize developments closely.

As the case continues to evolve, attention remains focused on both the legal process and Lee Yi Kyung’s future in the entertainment industry. His return to the airwaves, even in a limited role, suggests an attempt to gradually reengage with audiences while maintaining his stance that the allegations against him are unfounded.