Chanel has shared its initial stance in response to the drug use charges facing their brand ambassador G-Dragon.
Chanel Issues Statement Regarding G-Dragon’s Drug Use Charges
In a statement provided to the media outlet Ilgan Sports, Chanel issued their preliminary response to the allegations surrounding G-Dragon’s drug use.
“We are aware of the ongoing issue that is G-Dragon’s case,” the statement read. “However, we have no official position to share at this time.”
G-Dragon has been serving as Chanel’s ambassador since 2016. Recently, reports emerged that the police had booked G-Dragon, a member of the popular group BIGBANG, on charges related to drug use.
On October 25, it was reported that G-Dragon had been booked by the Incheon Metropolitan Police Agency under suspicion of violating the Act on the Control of Narcotics, Etc. Importantly, the police clarified that this case is distinct from that of actor Lee Sun Gyun, who is presently under investigation for drug use and recently withdrew from a television drama.
“This is a separate case that has no connection to Lee,” the police said in a statement.
Later that same evening, when approached for comment on the situation, YG Entertainment stated, “[G-Dragon] is currently not affiliated with our agency as an artist, making it challenging for us to issue an official response.”
Notably, YG Entertainment had already disclosed in June that their exclusive contract with G-Dragon had come to an end. This status change was made known prior to the current developments related to the drug-related charges against the artist.
The statement from YG Entertainment is an interesting one considering the agency applied for the renewal of the ‘G-Dragon’ trademark. The iconic stage name was initially trademarked in February 2003 with a 10-year validity. In 2013, the trademark was extended, securing its rights until September 13, 2023. The renewal comes shortly after the BIGBANG member signed what appears to be a distribution deal with another label.