'Denial of Forced Indecency' Rapper Essence to Face Victim in November..Witness Examination Scheduled [Comprehensive]

*This content was translated by AI.

Rapper Essence, who has completely denied allegations of forced indecency at his club, is expected to face the victim in court.

The Seoul Southern District Court's Criminal Division 12 held the first trial session on Essence's forced indecency charges on the 2nd.

On that day, Essence appeared in court wearing black clothing alongside his lawyer. The Prosecution Service stated in the indictment that "despite the victim expressing refusal, he pressed his body against her from behind near a certain club in Itaewon, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, in August 2025, sniffed near her neck, and touched her buttocks."

In response, Essence's lawyer denied the charges, stating, "It was not against the victim's will." Essence remained silent throughout the day.

Subsequently, the Prosecution Service announced its intention to call three witnesses, including the victim, which the court accepted, signaling a potential face-to-face confrontation in court between Essence and the victim. The court scheduled the next session for November 16.

Previously, the Seoul Southern District Court issued a summary order imposing a fine of 5 million won on Essence for forced indecency charges last June; however, Essence contested this and requested a formal trial, leading to his appearance in court.

Essence is accused of forcibly indecently assaulting Woman A, whom he first met at a certain club in Itaewon, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, in August 2025. According to Woman A, despite her clear expression of refusal, Essence pressed his body against her from behind and attempted to kiss her.

However, Essence issued a direct statement: "The physical contact in question occurred with mutual consent and in a natural atmosphere," adding, "There was no force, violence, or threats, and I clearly state that I never attempted any improper contact against the other party's will."

Regarding the circumstances at the time, Essence explained in detail: "Last August, I visited a club in Itaewon with friends. At the party, I greeted several people I had never met before, including naturally greeting the complainant and her group. Afterward, we toasted together and danced. During this process, we danced while standing close to each other and had fun. We also exchanged phone numbers." He further added, "About an hour after arriving at the club, I took a taxi home alone. Since then, there has been no contact or interaction with the complainant."

Continuing, Essence stated: "In December last year, the complainant suddenly posted about me on her Instagram and demanded an apology for alleged forced indecency using my contact information. As I had no intention of apologizing for false claims, I remained unresponsive. Several months later, she filed a lawsuit, and we are now approaching a formal trial in September this year."

Furthermore, Essence said: "I will diligently participate in the trial proceedings to reveal the objective truth. Please be aware that legal measures may be taken against any false or malicious posts or comments related to this matter, and I urge that speculative articles not be published."

Meanwhile, Essence debuted in 2003 as part of the hip-hop duo Supreme Team and gained significant popularity with hits such as 'Ttaeng Ttaeng Ttaeng' and 'That Time, That Time, That Time.' He continues his activities as a solo artist.

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*This content was translated by AI.