Actor Kim Seon-ho Returns to Stage Amid Tax Evasion Allegations: What to Expect

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Ryu Ye-ji from TenAsia delves into the future of the entertainment industry and its impact.

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Actor Kim Seon-ho is set to make his official return on November 13th with the play 'Secret Passage.' This marks his first public appearance following recent tax evasion allegations. However, there will be no press call for this performance, as the event is limited to audience interaction, indicating a quiet comeback.

Kim Seon-ho's choice to return to the stage is reportedly unrelated to the tax controversy. His participation in 'Secret Passage' was confirmed before the allegations surfaced, and he has consistently been active in theater. During the 2021 personal life controversy, he also returned through theater, but this choice seems more like a continuation of pre-existing plans rather than a strategic move.

Nevertheless, the timing of this performance, coming right after the controversy, inevitably draws parallels to past events. In 2021, Kim Seon-ho appeared on stage in tears, addressing his fans, and subsequently resumed his film and drama activities, supported by a strong fan base. Given that the theater stage served as a comeback platform then, there is keen interest in whether it will yield similar results this time.

Regarding the tax evasion allegations, Kim Seon-ho's team is actively verifying facts and providing explanations. The decision to skip the press call seems to be an effort to prevent personal issues from overshadowing the play's promotion. A press call could lead to concentrated media questions, potentially escalating the controversy.

Kim Seon-ho's fans are showing strong support, with all tickets for his performances sold out. This indicates that his fan base remains intact despite the controversy. Theater and musicals often reflect fan loyalty, and the sold-out status of this play reaffirms the size of his dedicated fan base.

However, a sold-out show does not necessarily equate to public endorsement. The closed nature of theater performances often means that the audience is primarily composed of existing fans. The success driven by fan choices does not automatically dispel the discomfort surrounding the tax allegations.

Kim Seon-ho will proceed with his scheduled theater performance, separate from the controversy. While there is no press call, his first public appearance post-controversy carries significant weight. Whether this approach will yield the same results as in the past remains uncertain.

With the play sold out, it is expected to proceed smoothly. However, the true test in the public eye will come with his next project.

Ryu Ye-ji, TenAsia Reporter ryuperstar@tenasia.co.kr