A top South Korean pop artist has announced his retirement from showbiz amid a criminal investigation involving drugs and assault.
Seungri announced on Instagram that he will be leaving the K-pop boy band BIGBANG "because the controversy has become so big".
"As for the ongoing probe, I will take the investigation seriously to clear all allegations," he added.
Seungri, whose real name is Lee Seung-hyun, had already cancelled the March shows of his solo tour.

Tanzania's Hassan declared landslide winner in election marred by violence
Vietnam's ancient town Hoi An works to restore tourism after devastating floods
Indian temple stampede kills nine, injures several
Turkey to host Gaza meeting amid ceasefire concerns
Tanzania opposition says hundreds killed in vote protests
