Comedian Lee Jin-ho is caught up in a troubling gambling scandal that has shocked both his fans and fellow entertainers.
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Known for his roles in “Comedy Big League” and “Knowing Bros,” the actor is said to be dealing with significant debt due to illegal gambling activities.
As reported by Insight, Lee borrowed more than 100 million won (approximately $75,000) from BTS member Jimin in 2022, claiming he urgently needed the funds. A promissory note was executed between the parties, but the actor did not fulfill the payment obligation.
A K-comedian was exposed for illegal gambling & borrowing money from celeb friends… apparently jimin is one of the victims. He asked jimin for 100M won in 2022 saying he needs it urgently & will pay back in a week but never did. Jm was generous & said just pay back in 10 years pic.twitter.com/eU7Sa3H1dY
— 드닝 (@gol3naotc) October 14, 2024
Jimin subsequently announced that he would not compel Lee to repay, providing a significant 10-year period. However, two years later, the actor still has not returned any portion of the initial amount.
Moreover, Lee borrowed substantial sums of money from other celebrities, such as Lee Soo-geun and singer Young Tak. Apparently, Lee used Soo Geun’s nickname to borrow from his colleagues.
For now, according to the same source, Ha Sung-Woon failed to recover the funds he lent to his fellow actor either. According to all of the witnesses, the complete amounts of Lee Jim Geum’s debt are yet to be ascertained and may include other influential industry professionals.
Moreover, the procurer of the scandal, reportedly SM C&C, is honestly aware of the situation and has again decided not to pronounce itself as a possible victim’s complaints over fraud and attempts to seize Lee Jin-ho’s appearance fees.
Furthermore, prior to this, the star used his Instagram account to admit his involvement in illegal gambling and apologize.
On the verified account, he reportedly admitted he has been gambling on an unregulated online platform since 2020 and ended up owing a sum he couldn’t pay. “I feel deeply shameful and regretful.
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I will repay my debts. no matter what happens,” he further stated. “I apologize for disappointing the fans and my fellow entertainers. I won’t be able to stand on stage or in front of the camera for a while anyway.”
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Rovelyn Barba
