Han So-hee Distances Herself from Mother's Illegal Gambling Allegations

Actress Han So-hee's agency has clarified that she has no connection to her mother's alleged illegal gambling activities, as public sympathy for Han continues to grow. Han So-hee is also a victim of her mother's actions.

On the 3rd, Han So-hee's agency, 9ato Entertainment, stated, "The news reported yesterday (2nd) regarding Han So-hee's mother is about her mother's personal actions. Han So-hee herself learned about this through the news and is deeply distressed."

The agency added, "This incident is entirely unrelated to the actress and is solely her mother's independent action. We apologize for delivering such uncomfortable news regarding personal matters rather than professional work."

According to reports on the 2nd, Han So-hee's mother, identified as Ms. Shin in her 50s, was arrested for allegedly operating illegal gambling dens. The reports indicate that since 2021, Ms. Shin has been running 12 gambling establishments in Ulsan, Wonju, and other locations using proxy business operators. Prosecutors believe that patrons of these establishments accessed gambling websites managed by Ms. Shin to recharge game money and engage in games like baccarat.

Ms. Shin has a prior record of being fined for similar charges and has been sued multiple times for fraud and other allegations. In 2020, online claims surfaced accusing Ms. Shin of absconding with money from a private savings club, sparking a 'debt scandal' around her.

In response, Han So-hee issued a statement at the time, explaining, "My parents divorced when I was about five years old, and my grandmother raised me. After transferring to a school in Ulsan where my mother lived during high school, I continued to live with my grandmother and moved to Seoul after graduation to pursue my career."

She added, "I was not in frequent contact with my mother, and I learned about her debts after turning 20. As a duty to my grandmother's daughter and out of filial piety, I paid off my mother's debts to the best of my ability before my debut."

In 2022, when a similar incident occurred, Han So-hee's side clarified, "Her mother used a bank account in Han So-hee's name to borrow money. She opened the account without Han So-hee's knowledge when she was a minor and used it to borrow money." They added, "Han So-hee has no plans to take responsibility for the related debts."

The recent allegations against her mother have resurfaced at a time when they were almost forgotten. Han So-hee, who has long been estranged from her mother, should not be held accountable for her mother's actions simply because of their biological connection. As stated in the official position, Han So-hee is suffering deeply and deserves support rather than criticism.

Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr