K-pop singer Nam Tae-hyun, previously convicted for methamphetamine use, is making a return to the stage next month at "K-Pop Week in Hongdae," stirring a mix of curiosity and controversy.

At a press conference held on April 23 at H-Stage in Mapo-gu, Seoul, comedian and event organizer Yoon Hyung-bin addressed the sensitive choice of casting Nam Tae-hyun. "I was very cautious. I even did a deep dive online," he shared. "But I saw he's been doing a lot of good deeds lately and the public sentiment wasn't all negative."

Yoon explained that after personally meeting Nam, he felt the singer was genuinely remorseful and desperate to perform again. "He really wants to get back on stage. I suggested a smaller, more intimate show to reconnect with his fans, and that's how this all came together."

Nam Tae-hyun was sentenced to one year in prison with two years of probation for purchasing and using meth in 2022. He was also fined for a DUI incident in 2023. Since then, he's kept a low profile, but recently hinted at a comeback through a heartfelt social media post. "I've made serious mistakes, but I'm spending every day reflecting and preparing an album that tells my full story," he wrote.

Nam debuted in 2014 with the group WINNER but left in 2016. He later formed South Club and pursued a solo career, which was derailed by drug scandals and personal issues.

Now, he's set to perform at K-Pop Week in Hongdae, running from May 1 to 11 across venues like Red Road, West Bridge Live Hall, and H-Stage. Other artists in the lineup include MBLAQ's Seungho, Teen Top's Chunji, CLC's Yeeun, and more — totaling 12 acts bringing fresh energy to Hongdae's indie scene.

[Photo Credit: Dispatch DB]