Posted on: October 15, 2024, 11:45h.
Last updated on: October 15, 2024, 11:50h.
On Monday, South Korean comedian Lee Jin Ho shocked the K-pop community by revealing on social media that he is under investigation for illegal online gambling by law enforcement. He also confessed to funding his gambling addiction by scamming his celebrity friends.
In an Instagram post, Lee informed his 133K followers that he started gambling in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.
During lockdowns, he discovered an online gambling site that enticed him to register and play. Online casino gambling is illegal in South Korea. Lee admitted that his gambling became reckless, resulting in debts he could not repay.
To cover his losses, he borrowed money from his celebrity friends, including a $73K check from BTS member Jimin in 2022. The loan was never paid back, according to Big Hit Music, Jimin’s management group.
“Jimin suffered financial losses. He trusted Lee Jin Ho and loaned him money with a promissory note,” stated Big Hit Music.
“Scammers target everyone, even celebrities,” the statement continued. “Lee did not repay the loan despite the written agreement. This is unacceptable.”
Overwhelming Debt
Reports suggest that Lee scammed other celebrities besides Jimin. Yonhap News and Ten Asia reported that singers Young Tak and comedian Lee Su Geun were also victims, each lending Lee “hundreds of millions of won.”
In his social media post, Lee promised to repay all his victims.
“I stumbled upon an illegal gambling site in 2020 which led to severe financial difficulties,” wrote Lee. “Thanks to advice from my friends, I was able to quit gambling and prevent further harm to my career.”
I have been diligently repaying my debts each month and will continue to do so. The financial loss is painful, but the betrayal is even worse. I will cooperate fully with any investigations and accept the consequences of my actions.”
Repaying his debts has become more challenging as Lee’s disclosure has already impacted his work opportunities.
Following the revelations, Netflix announced that Lee would be removed from “Knowing Bros,” a popular show in South Korea, where he has been a regular cast member for the last 100 episodes.
Korean Gambling
The only legal gambling option for South Korean citizens is Kangwon Land, located about 100 miles east of Seoul. Other casinos in Korea are designated for foreigners only.
The South Korean government strictly prohibits online gambling for residents and foreigners. Penalties for running illegal gambling operations include up to seven years in prison and a fine of up to 70 million won.
Individuals involved in illegal gambling may face fines of up to 20 million won, with repeat offenders risking up to three years in prison.