[WhatIS] SHINee’s Key returns after 6 months of “halted activities”…Can he win back the public’s hearts?

SHINee's Key, who had halted activities amid controversy over the so-called 'injection older sister' and allegations of illegal medical practices, has reappeared before the public after six months.

At midnight on the 11th, a schedule film for 'Atmos' (Atmos) was released through SHINee's official channel. The video teases the comeback schedule ahead of SHINee's mini 6th album 'Atmos' set for release in June, and Key appears as a weathercaster.

In the video, Key drew attention with a striking look, featuring short blond hair and silver accessories on his nose. Mixed reactions are emerging toward Key, who has appeared for the first time in six months.

Those welcoming his return say that Key was also a victim deceived by the so-called injection older sister, and they are supporting him, noting that no legally problematic allegations have emerged. On the other hand, criticism has also been raised that Key's return is too hasty.

Previously, in December last year, Key became embroiled in controversy over being acquainted with the injection older sister along with broadcaster Park Na-rae and others. At the time, Key's agency SM Entertainment explained, "Key visited a hospital in Gangnam-gu where A works after being introduced by an acquaintance, and first came to know A as a doctor. Later, he continued receiving treatment at that hospital, and when it became difficult to visit the hospital recently, he received treatment at home several times."

It continued, "He believed A was a doctor and did not recognize that receiving treatment at home could be a problem," and added, "Key has recognized the seriousness of the matter and has decided to withdraw from his scheduled appearances and current programs."

Key, who stepped down from MBC's 'I Live Alone' and tvN's 'Amazing Saturday,' among other programs he was appearing on at the time, will meet fans through SHINee's concert held at KSPO Dome in Olympic Park for three days from the 29th to the 31st.

After that, he will release his mini 6th album 'Atmos' on June 1. Attention is focused on whether Key, now facing the controversy head-on, can win back the public's heart.

Reporter Lee Joo-in