Rapper Nafla Receives Suspended Sentence for Faking Mental Illness to Avoid Public Service

Rapper Nafla, whose real name is Choi Nicholas Seokbae, has been handed a suspended prison sentence for attempting to secure an early discharge from public service by faking mental illness. On October 2, 2024, the Supreme Court upheld a lower court ruling, sentencing Nafla to one year and two months in prison, suspended for two years. He was convicted of obstruction of official duties and violating the Military Service Act.

Nafla was assigned to public service at Seocho District Office in February 2021 but manipulated his attendance records and feigned worsening depression and panic disorder to avoid completing his duties. Although he had been receiving psychiatric treatment, he reportedly did not take the prescribed medications, instead storing them at home.

The scheme also involved several accomplices, including his agency’s co-CEO and officials from the Seocho District Office and Seoul Regional Military Manpower Administration, all of whom faced legal action. Nafla’s sentence was reduced on appeal after he admitted guilt and showed remorse for his actions.

Nafla's case follows a broader military service fraud scandal in South Korea, which has also implicated other public figures, including former VIXX member Ravi. Ravi, who faked epilepsy to avoid military service, was sentenced to one year in prison, suspended for two years.