Comedian Kim Gu-ra has addressed the controversy surrounding his son, rapper Gri (Kim Dong-hyun), who faces accusations of violating military regulations by leaving the barracks during a holiday shift while serving mandatory enlistment.
Explanation in Latest YouTube Video
Kim Gu-ra uploaded a video titled “Pilsung! Gri is a true person” on his YouTube channel ‘GriGura,’ drawing significant attention. In the footage, he discloses Gri’s whereabouts and clarifies the barracks exit procedure.
“There was a real story behind it,” Kim Gu-ra states, noting that Gri coordinated the holiday departure with superiors. He explains, “They conduct roll call at 9 a.m. and then align with commanding officers. Even for celebrities creating content, as long as they report to the company commander’s division by noon, it remains permissible, even if spotted outside.”
Gri adds context: “If you notify the section chief before departing on a holiday shift, the barracks grants re-approval.” He acknowledges public concerns, saying, “Many view prior roll call exits as reckless, questioning if all squad leaders are targets or if leave slots are limited. That’s why they instill greater caution.”
“As a former military judge, I know that operating freely requires self-reporting. Without unit approval, even the company commander cannot authorize departures. Many in the unit receive such permissions, which is why I explain it,” Kim Gu-ra remarks.
Recent Public Appearances and Background
Gri featured on MBC’s ‘Radio Star’ on January 28, discussing his service. Earlier, after matching a 549-day barracks record, he spent four hours at a studio, prompting threats toward his father over the content creation.
The unit permitted the entire company to leave on January 4. Recruits later clarified that such exits align with military prosecutor’s guidelines on soldiers’ activities, avoiding undue restrictions.
Military Service Rules and Precedents
Under Article 30 of military confinement regulations, soldiers cannot engage externally without direct oversight unless granted higher command approval. Kim Gu-ra emphasizes that unit endorsements prevent issues.
Naval forces prosecutors highlight risks post-government audits, urging strict personnel checks. They describe Gri’s case as expected from a prominent figure’s son, where heightened scrutiny leads to proactive approvals.
One side notes Gri’s prior appearance on the second Army public relations broadcast in July 2024, where he performed as a musician despite enlistment, receiving endorsements from Seoul and Gyeonggi province youth leaders after rigorous checks.
