BTS's Jimin Among Celebrities Scammed by Comedian Lee Jin-ho Amidst Illegal Gambling Debts

Comedian Lee Jin-ho has been embroiled in a scandal involving illegal gambling debts amounting to billions of won, with BTS's Jimin, singer Young Tak, and comedian Lee Soo-geun among those deceived into lending him money. Lee not only borrowed from fellow celebrities but also resorted to loan sharks, exacerbating the situation. Some celebrities, upon realizing Lee's deceit, have decided to file fraud charges and request the seizure of his appearance fees. When contacted by this publication, Lee's agency, SM C&C, was asked about the financial damages caused by Lee's illegal gambling, prompting Lee to release a sudden statement in an attempt to avoid legal repercussions. He also abruptly canceled his scheduled appearance at the Netflix 'Comedy Revenge' production presentation at 11 AM today.

◆ BTS's Jimin Loses 100 Million Won

According to Ten Asia's investigation on the 14th, BTS's Jimin, Young Tak, Lee Soo-geun, and others were deceived by Lee Jin-ho into lending him billions of won. Some celebrities, who trusted Lee and lent money without a promissory note, now face potential tax penalties as the tax authorities consider the transactions as 'gifts' rather than 'loans.'

BTS's Jimin was also a victim. According to HYBE, Lee approached Jimin in 2022, claiming he needed urgent cash and borrowed 100 million won, promising to return it in a week. Although a promissory note was written, Lee did not honor it. Jimin, realizing Lee had no intention of repaying, generously told him, "Just pay it back within 10 years." However, Lee's misconduct extended to other celebrities.

Lee even attempted to borrow money from the cast of 'Knowing Bros,' where he appeared. Lee Soo-geun was notably affected, suffering losses of at least tens of millions of won. Lee also borrowed money from people around Lee Soo-geun, using his name, causing significant financial and emotional distress to Lee Soo-geun, who had to repay his acquaintances on Lee's behalf.

Singer Young Tak was another victim who lent money to Lee Jin-ho. The exact amount is unknown. Young Tak lent money to Lee, who then cut off contact, causing Young Tak considerable distress.

◆ Agency's Complicity

Lee Jin-ho's agency, SM C&C, was aware of these issues. There were instances where creditors contacted the company, demanding repayment. However, the agency effectively ignored the situation and allowed Lee to appear in the Netflix series 'Comedy Revenge.' This indicates a lack of management despite knowing the potential widespread impact on celebrities.

When this publication requested final confirmation from SM C&C on the morning of the 14th regarding these issues, the agency did not respond and instead cut off communication. Subsequently, Lee Jin-ho posted a statement on his social media, attempting to garner sympathy. In his statement, he claimed to have been repaying the debts, but it was difficult to find cases where high-profile victims like BTS's Jimin and Lee Soo-geun had received their money back. In fraud cases, the intention to repay, or lack thereof, is crucial for legal consequences, suggesting Lee's statement was an attempt to avoid punishment.

Lee Jin-ho wrote on social media, "In 2020, I started playing games on an illegal online gambling site by chance and ended up with debts I couldn't handle. With stern advice from acquaintances and the fear of not being able to do the work I love, I finally came to my senses and quit gambling, but I had already received financial help from many people." He continued, "I am steadily repaying the money every month and plan to repay all the debts with my own efforts until I die. The financial loss is significant, but more than anything, I am deeply sorry to those who trusted me and lent me money. Whenever an unknown number called, my heart raced, fearing it was a call about my debts, and I felt like I was being beaten every day, fearing when this would become public."

Lee Jin-ho added, "I thought that maybe if I confessed everything and received punishment, I could at least escape this anxiety. But I also thought that working was the only way I could repay the debts, so I couldn't make a decision easily. I am so ashamed and sorry. As a public figure, I regret the past days ruined by a moment of poor judgment. Even if I can't be a role model, I will strive to live without being criticized by others." He also promised, "I assure you that I will repay the remaining debts no matter what. I sincerely apologize to those disappointed by my attempts to hide the social controversy. I will cooperate with the police investigation and face the consequences of my actions."

Lee Jin-ho was scheduled to attend the Netflix variety show 'Comedy Revenge' production presentation today but suddenly announced his absence.

Kim Ji-won, Ten Asia Reporter bella@tenasia.co.kr