The criminal actions of Gen Z Taiwanese singer Kui have once again ignited widespread public outrage.
The case involving Taiwanese singer Kui, who fatally struck a taxi driver standing by the roadside, has dominated media coverage and social media discussions across Asia for more than a year. In the latest development, the controversial singer has been dealt another major legal setback.
On the morning of May 30, the court issued an 8-month travel ban against Kui. The order officially took effect on May 26. According to the court, the strict measure was necessary because Kui had a prior conviction for drunk driving and committed another serious offense that resulted in a fatality. Authorities also cited concerns that he could attempt to flee.
Earlier, China Times reported that Taiwanese police had released information regarding the serious traffic accident involving Kui, along with CCTV footage that shocked the public.
On the night of the incident, Kui and his girlfriend reportedly had dinner together and did not leave the restaurant until around 4 a.m. The singer, born in 1999, then allegedly drove his girlfriend home while intoxicated.
As he passed a KTV venue, Kui’s vehicle reportedly crashed directly into two taxi drivers, identified by their surnames Lee and Chen, who were standing by the roadside waiting for passengers. Instead of stopping after the collision, the singer allegedly accelerated and fled the scene.
According to witnesses, several bystanders immediately chased after Kui’s vehicle. They repeatedly pounded on the car windows and shouted, “You hit someone! Get out of the car!” Some even smashed a window in an attempt to stop him. However, Kui allegedly ignored the warnings and sped away from the scene.
The consequences of the accident were devastating. Mr. Lee later died from his severe injuries, while Mr. Chen suffered multiple bruises and abrasions.
Several days after the fatal crash, Taiwanese police summoned Kui for questioning. During the investigation, the singer denied knowingly hitting anyone and reportedly claimed, “I thought I had only hit a rock.”
The statement immediately sparked fierce criticism from the public, with many condemning what they viewed as a lack of remorse and responsibility.
Adding to the controversy, Kui was also accused of attempting to destroy evidence by having the damaged vehicle repaired and allegedly concealing the memory card from the vehicle’s dashcam.
Public anger intensified further after reports emerged that the singer continued performing and carrying out his regular activities as if nothing had happened. He even posted a New Year greeting on social media following the fatal accident, drawing additional backlash from netizens.
During court proceedings, Kui initially attempted to deflect responsibility. However, after prosecutors presented substantial evidence, he eventually admitted guilt.
In April, the court sentenced Kui to 10 years in prison on charges including causing death through unsafe driving while intoxicated and fleeing the scene after a fatal accident. The newly imposed 8-month travel ban further restricts his movements while legal proceedings continue.
Reports indicate that the singer still has the option to appeal the ruling.
Born in 1999, Kui is considered one of the rising stars of Taiwan’s new generation of singers. He joined Sony Music Taiwan in 2022 and released his debut album, Lover Crooner, two years later. His song Not Me topped several online music charts in Taiwan and accumulated significant views on YouTube, helping establish him as one of the industry’s emerging talents before the scandal overshadowed his career.
Sources: K14