Comedian Park Na-rae Faces Legal Battle Over Allegations from Former Employees

Comedian Park Na-rae (41) has taken a firm stance against allegations of misconduct made by former employees, stating that the truth will be revealed through legal proceedings.

Park Na-rae's agency, A&P Entertainment, released an official statement on the 5th, identifying the accusers as two employees who worked with the company for approximately 1 year and 3 months. The agency claimed that after these employees resigned, they were paid their severance, but subsequently demanded an additional amount equivalent to 10% of the company's previous year's revenue.

The agency further stated, "As time passed, these individuals continued to add new claims, increasing pressure on Park Na-rae and the agency, with their demands eventually reaching several billion won. Park Na-rae has suffered significant mental and emotional distress due to the sudden resignation of her colleagues, their baseless claims, escalating financial demands, and media pressure."

Regarding the issue of the unregistered one-person agency, the agency explained that the former employees falsely reported that the registration had been completed. "Both the agency and Park Na-rae acknowledge the operational shortcomings and have no intention of evading responsibility for any mistakes," they stated.

The agency clarified, "We operate as a small-scale one-person agency and only recently discovered the delay in registering as a cultural and arts planning business. The former employees responsible for this task falsely reported that the registration process was complete. After their resignation, they leaked this information to the media, and we became fully aware of the situation through related inquiries. We deeply regret the operational deficiencies and are currently taking swift legal steps to rectify the situation."

Park Na-rae's side has decided to take legal action against the allegations. "Given the ongoing misunderstandings and pressure resulting from claims that do not align with the facts, we have decided not to be swayed by unilateral demands any longer. After legal review, we have decided to take necessary legal measures," they stated.

The agency concluded by urging caution in media reporting, stating, "The allegations raised by some media outlets will be clearly revealed through legal procedures. Until the accurate facts are confirmed, we ask for careful reporting to prevent further unnecessary misunderstandings and harm to Park Na-rae and related parties."

Meanwhile, Park Na-rae has been embroiled in various allegations following revelations from former managers. They accused her of workplace harassment, including verbal abuse and forcing them to attend drinking parties, even claiming injuries from thrown glasses. Additional issues raised include hospital appointment errands, unauthorized prescription pickups, and unaccounted business expenses. Furthermore, Park Na-rae has been reported for conducting business activities without proper agency registration.

Choi Ji-ye, TenAsia Reporter wisdomart@tenasia.co.kr