Kim Hyun-joong makes apology to ex-girlfriend

South Korean singer and actor Kim Hyun-joong made an official apology Monday to his former girlfriend, fully admitting his assault charges.

In response, his ex-girlfriend agreed to unconditionally drop the charges she pressed against him on Sept. 2, Kim’s lawyer said.

Kim left a message on his official homepage to apologize to the woman.

“I am really sorry that I mentally and physically hurt the person I loved and trusted for two years,” he wrote.

“I feel so ashamed that I did what a man was not supposed to do. This (conflict) erupted all because of me, so she has no reason to be blamed,” he repented. 

“I once again apologize to her, her family and friends. Above all, I hope she can accept my apology and forgive me,” he added.

Kim said that he would make efforts to lead a life in a healthier and better manner.

The apology came three weeks after the woman filed charges against Kim, accusing him of beating her on multiple occasions.

The 28-year-old idol’s then-girlfriend claimed that Kim attacked her several times between late May and mid-July, which left her with bruises and broken ribs.

The violence broke out while arguing with Kim over “women issues” at his home in Jamsil, eastern Seoul, she said.

Kim, however, only partially admitted to the charges during the Sept. 2 questioning by the police at Songpa District Police Station in southeastern Seoul.

Kim acknowledged that he had used violence against the woman only once and accidentally, rejecting the accusation of “repetitive assaults” against her.

If Kim had found to have committed intentional and repeated assault, he could have faced a criminal trial.

The singer-turned-actor was on his worldwide “Fantasy” concert tour before returning to Korea to respond to the police summons.

Kim’s agency confirmed that the singer will continue his tour as scheduled. He will hold his next concert in Japan on Sept. 16.

By Ock Hyun-ju (laeticia.ock@heraldcorp.com)