Taiwanese Generation Z singer Kui’s criminal actions have once again ignited widespread public outrage.
The case involving Taiwanese singer Kui, who fatally shot a taxi driver stopped on the side of the road, has dominated media coverage and social media discussions across Asia for more than a year. In the latest developments, the controversial singer faced another serious legal obstacle.
On the morning of May 30, the court issued an 8-month travel ban against Kui. The ordinance officially went into effect on May 26. According to the court, the strict measure was necessary because Kui had previously been convicted of drunk driving and had committed another serious crime resulting in death. Authorities have also expressed fears that he may try to escape.
Previously, the China Times reported that Taiwanese police had released information regarding the serious traffic accident involving Kui, along with CCTV footage that had shocked the public.
On the night of the accident, Kui and his girlfriend allegedly had dinner together and did not leave the restaurant until around 4 am. The singer, born in 1999, would then accompany his girlfriend home while he was drunk.
While passing a KTV venue, Kui’s vehicle reportedly crashed directly into two taxi drivers, identified by their surnames Lee and Chen, who were on the side of the road waiting for passengers. Instead of stopping after the accident, the singer allegedly accelerated and fled the scene.
According to witnesses, several passers-by immediately chased Kui’s vehicle. They repeatedly banged on the car windows and shouted: “You hit someone! Get out of the car!” Some even broke a window in an attempt to stop him. However, Kui allegedly ignored the warnings and fled the scene.
The consequences of the accident were devastating. Mr Lee later died from his serious injuries, while Mr Chen suffered numerous bruises and abrasions.
Several days after the fatal accident, Taiwanese police summoned Kui for questioning. During the investigation, the singer denied knowingly hitting anyone and reportedly stated: “I thought I just hit a rock.”
The statement immediately drew fierce criticism from the public, many of whom condemned what they saw 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 hiding the memory card from the vehicle’s dashcam.
Public anger intensified further after reports emerged that the singer continued to perform and carry out his regular activities as if nothing had happened. He also posted a New Year’s wish on social media following the fatal accident, sparking further reaction from netizens.
During the court proceedings, Kui initially attempted to deflect responsibility. However, after prosecutors presented substantial evidence, he ultimately admitted guilt.
In April, the court sentenced Kui to 10 years in prison on charges of causing death by unsafe driving while intoxicated and fleeing the scene after a fatal accident. The recently 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 sentence.
Born in 1999, Kui is considered one of the rising stars of the new generation of Taiwanese 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 amassed significant views on YouTube, helping establish him as one of the industry’s emerging talents before the scandal overshadowed his career.
Sources: K14
