In this Tuesday, Sept. 2, 2014 photo, South Korean singer and actor Kim Hyun-joong answers reporters’ question upon his arrival for questioning at the Gangnam police station in Seoul, South Korea. Police said Kim Hyun-joong has acknowledged that he hit his then-girlfriend during an argument in May at his home in Seoul. AP
SEOUL, South Korea — Popular South Korean singer and actor Kim Hyun-joong acknowledged he hit his then-girlfriend during an argument in May, police said Wednesday.
The woman, who also hit Kim, was struck multiple times and had bruises on her arms and scratches on her knees, according to police inspector Chung Chae-min, who added that the woman told authorities she needed two weeks of hospital treatment.
Kim told police during questioning that the fight was mutual and they became entangled, but he said he didn’t remember where he hit her or how often, according to Chung.
“But this wasn’t one of those fights where one person got angry and slapped the other person,” the police inspector said. “The action was more severe than that.”
Chung said Kim and the woman would be questioned further before police decide whether to send the case to prosecutors for a possible indictment.
The 28-year-old Kim debuted with the boy band SS501 in 2005 and then made a splash as an actor. He appeared in the television drama “Boys Over Flowers” in 2009. He is popular throughout Asia.
Kim’s agency did not return calls seeking comment.