Rapper’s Performance Canceled Following Backlash Over Defamation of Former President Roh Moo-hyun

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An upcoming performance by 19-year-old rapper Rich IGI (legal name Lee Min-seo) has been officially canceled after widespread public backlash over his history of mocking deceased historical figures came to light.

Rich IGI was scheduled to hold his first concert on May 23 at Yeonnam Space in Mapo-gu, Seoul. The initial lineup for the event included prominent hip-hop artists such as Noel, The Quiett, and Paloalto.

However, the event was abruptly called off just five days prior to the scheduled date. The Roh Moo-hyun Foundation had signaled potential legal action, including an injunction to ban the performance, and officially dispatched a formal document to the organizers demanding a public apology.

The controversy stems from Rich IGI’s repeated public mockery of the late former South Korean President Roh Moo-hyun. Public scrutiny intensified when it was revealed that both the scheduled date of the concert and the ticket price—52,300 KRW—directly referenced the date of the former president’s passing (May 23).

The venue management, Yeonnam Space, issued an official statement on May 19 clarifying the situation: "The performance in question was booked under an external rental contract. Following consultations with the production agency on May 18, the event has been officially canceled."

The venue operators added, "At the time of booking, we were only informed that the event was a collaborative performance by hip-hop musicians. We only became aware of the specific artist's controversies after receiving reports from the Foundation."

Yeonnam Space further emphasized its corporate values, stating, "Our venue does not support or align with content that promotes hate speech, derogatory expressions against individuals or groups, or the instigation of social conflict. We have notified the performance agency of the cancellation."

The venue also pledged to implement preventative measures moving forward, stating, "We will reinforce our internal screening procedures during the booking process to meticulously verify the nature and specific content of all future performances."

Rich IGI, an alumnus of Seoul Design High School, previously drew fierce criticism for incorporating derogatory remarks aimed at the late President Roh into his lyrics. Additionally, separate allegations involving pedophilic themes have surfaced against the rapper.