Rapper Rich Iggy’s concert canceled amid controversy over late Roh Moo Hyun references

20 May 2026, 00:27 by Minsoo-Kim · allkpop

A planned solo concert by rapper Rich Iggy, who has repeatedly been criticized for mocking late former president Roh Moo Hyun, has been canceled following public backlash.

On May 19 KST, the Roh Moo Hyun Foundation announced that the performance, which had been scheduled for May 23 — the 17th anniversary of Roh’s death — was canceled following the foundation’s response.

The foundation stated that it would continue taking a strong stance against attempts to hide behind freedom of expression while damaging community values and mocking historical tragedy.

According to the foundation, Rich Iggy, whose real name is Lee Min Seo, has repeatedly referenced Roh Moo Hyun by name in songs and used expressions alluding to the former president’s death. The rapper has also faced criticism over lyrics involving misogyny, sexual objectification, and depictions of crimes against minors.

Further controversy arose because the concert ticket price, 52,300 KRW (approximately 35 USD), and the performance date were both interpreted as references to Roh Moo Hyun’s memorial date.

The venue, Yeonnam Space, also released a statement explaining that it initially understood the event to be a general hip-hop group performance. After receiving information from the Roh Moo Hyun Foundation, the venue said it later became aware of the details surrounding the rapper and the controversy tied to the event, ultimately deciding not to allow the performance.

Following the cancellation, Rich Iggy posted a handwritten apology on social media, stating that the incident stemmed entirely from his own independent decision and was unrelated to the participating artists.

He admitted that since his debut he had mocked and disparaged the late former president for attention and fame, adding that he deeply regrets his actions and carelessness.

Meanwhile, rappers Paloalto and Deepflow, who had been expected to participate in the concert, also issued apologies and distanced themselves from Rich Iggy’s actions.

Paloalto stated that he does not support expressions that mock the deceased or could be interpreted as hateful, acknowledging that he failed to fully consider how such content could hurt others. Deepflow similarly explained that he had not understood the meaning behind the numbers associated with the event, but admitted he felt responsible for his lack of awareness as a veteran in the industry.

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