Entertainer Park Na-rae Resurfaces Amid Controversy, Pursues Traditional Brewing Education

Korean entertainer Park Na-rae, who has been embroiled in allegations of power abuse and illegal medical practices, has been spotted for the first time since announcing her hiatus from public activities.

According to a report on the 23rd, Park Na-rae visited a makgeolli brewing school in Seoul on the 21st. This marks her first public appearance since she announced her break from activities in December last year.

On that day, Park arrived at the school with a male companion, taking a taxi. She was seen wearing a mask, a shearling coat, and a bucket hat pulled down low. The man accompanying her is reportedly a friend who has been supporting her in the absence of a manager.

Park briefly addressed the press, saying, "Hello. I'm here for a class. It starts soon, so I need to go in. I have to do something," before heading into the school. She did not comment on the various allegations surrounding her.

The institution Park visited offers education on traditional Korean alcoholic beverages like makgeolli and dongdongju, as well as other types such as baijiu and wine. It is reported that Park attends a weekly class on makgeolli brewing.

The accompanying male stated, "Park Na-rae is going through a very difficult emotional time," adding that she chose this field carefully as a way to overcome her current challenges. "She needed an environment where she could focus emotionally and found a place to study," he explained.

He further mentioned, "She is trying to overcome the loneliness of being alone and is preparing to provide sincere testimony for the upcoming police investigation." Park reportedly left the school with her companion after a 90-minute class.

Park Na-rae is currently engaged in legal battles, having countersued former managers for attempted extortion and embezzlement. She has halted all broadcasting activities and stepped down from her programs. Previously, Park released a statement saying, "There are aspects that need to be calmly verified, so legal procedures are underway," and added, "I will not make any additional comments or explanations."

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