G-Dragon's Legacy: A Look at the 6 Major Controversies Shaping the K-pop Icon's Career

G-Dragon, a pivotal figure in the global K-pop scene and a key member of the eminent South Korean group Bigbang, is celebrated for thrusting the Hallyu wave into the international limelight. He is often mentioned alongside K-pop royalty, and his influence is undeniable. However, G-Dragon, whose real name is Kwon Ji Yong, has been no stranger to controversy, with various incidents clouding his illustrious career. Dubbed by some as a "troublemaker," his professional triumphs are often marred by personal and legal issues. Here's an overview of six incidents where G-Dragon found himself at the center of media storms.

G-Dragon's 2023 Drug Allegations

The K-pop icon's recent involvement in a drug controversy sent shockwaves through South Korea. This scandal follows a similar accusation against actor Lee Sun Kyung, though the situations differ. G-Dragon proactively participated in the investigation by visiting the Narcotics Unit of the Incheon Metropolitan Police Agency, presenting himself for interrogation and providing the required samples. Rumors emerged that he tampered with the evidence by removing body hair; allegations he quickly denied.

The Marijuana Scandal of 2011

Post Bigbang’s comeback from a hiatus in 2011, G-Dragon was tangled in a marijuana-related case in Japan. Despite Bigbang's success anchoring YG Entertainment at the forefront of K-pop, G-Dragon's association with marijuana—a substance illegal in South Korea—became a major legal hurdle for him. Although his urine test results were negative, a hair test returned positive for marijuana. Ultimately, the band’s frontman admitted to unwittingly consuming cannabis, mistaking it for a regular cigarette while under the influence.

Controversy Surrounding Military Service

Another significant controversy that followed G-Dragon involved his military enlistment. Accusations sprang up over alleged delays in his conscription, an obligation for every South Korean male. Critics charged him with utilizing his status to defer military service. Nevertheless, South Korean law permits higher education students to postpone their service temporally. Leveraging this, G-Dragon successfully deferred his military duties from 2009 to 2016 to focus on his academic endeavors.

Preferential Treatment Controversy

Blackpink’s Jennie and Dating Scandals

The dashing Bad Boy artist frequently hits the headlines for his rumored romances. His alleged affair with Blackpink’s Jennie was particularly talked about, leaving fans polarized online. While speculation about his liaisons with Japanese models and renowned K-pop idols prevailed, G-Dragon has consistently maintained silence regarding his love life, not confirming any such engagements.

Plagiarism Allegations

Plagiarism disputes have also been a blemish on G-Dragon’s career. Accused of crafting songs resembling the works of others, he also saw his own music subjected to copycat claims. In a notable instance, Sony Music compared his hit "Heartbreaker" with Flo Rida's "Right Round," and laid similar charges against his song "Butterfly," citing resemblances to Oasis’s "She's Electric."