Eru returns to stage after four-year hiatus following drunk driving controversy

Singer Eru, who suspended his activities following a drunk driving controversy, has returned to the official stage for the first time in approximately four years. Expressing his feelings about standing before an audience after such a long hiatus, he stated he felt "cautious and very nervous," while also sharing heartfelt emotions regarding his mother, who is suffering from dementia.

On the 8th, Eru shared via social media (SNS), "As it was my first time on stage in a long while, it was a cautious and very nerve-wracking stage," adding, "It was an even more meaningful and grateful time because I could show my image on screen to my mother once again."

He continued, "Thanks to the support and encouragement of many people, I was able to finish the stage happily," and added, "I am sincerely grateful."

Released photos and videos captured Eru bowing deeply at a 90-degree angle toward the audience after finishing his performance. Scenes of him waiting backstage with a tense expression were also revealed, reflecting his complex emotions as he returned to the stage after a long hiatus.

The performance was part of the 5th-anniversary special 'Lovers of Chosun Singing Contest,' which aired on the TV CHOSUN variety show 'Lovers of Joseon' on the 6th.

Eru passionately sang "Black Glasses," known to be his mother's favorite song. Afterward, his father, singer Tae Jin Ah, joined him on stage to perform his signature song "Ok-gyeong-i," completing a special father-son performance.

The performance drew significant attention as it marked Eru's first official stage appearance approximately four years after his drunk driving incident.

In September 2022, Eru was taken to trial on charges of driving while intoxicated and subsequently switching the driver with a passenger. In December of the same year, he faced public criticism as additional charges of aiding and abetting drunk driving were added after he had an acquaintance move his vehicle while intoxicated.

The court sentenced Eru to six months in prison, suspended for one year, and a fine of 100,000 won.

At the time, the defense appealed for leniency, stating, "The Defendant is a first-time offender who has admitted to all crimes and is deeply reflecting," and requested, "Please consider that his mother has been suffering from severe dementia for several years and relies heavily on the Defendant, and that Eru is personally in charge of her nursing and caring for her with devotion."

Since then, Eru has spent a period of self-reflection while virtually suspending all official activities. In an episode of 'Lovers of Joseon' aired this past February, his life caring for his mother, who is battling dementia, was revealed.

As interest builds regarding whether Eru will resume full-scale activities, public opinion regarding his return remains a mix of support and caution. Meanwhile, Eru reflected on the significance of his return, stating, "I will not forget my cautious heart and will greet you again with a more mature appearance."