Hwang Jung-eum “I take full responsibility... recovering losses” tearful statement, public opinion divided between “sympathy” and “cynicism.”
Actress Hwang Jung-eum, embroiled in controversy over embezzlement allegations, has finally spoken out. In an official statement on the 15th, Hwang said, “I apologize for causing much concern to many people due to this disgraceful matter,” bowing her head.
It was revealed that Hwang Jung-eum has recently been indicted on embezzlement charges under the Act on Specified Crimes with Increased Punishment. Hwang is accused of embezzling approximately 7 million won in the form of advances from a loan received by her agency, in which she holds 100% equity, and investing it in virtual currency, as well as embezzling a total of 4.3 billion won of company funds. Of that, around 4.2 billion won is known to have been used for virtual currency.
On the same evening, she revealed in an official statement that the incident occurred in the agency she founded for her exclusive activities, stating, “The company has been operated solely by my entertainment activity revenue, and there were no other affiliated artists.” She added, “In 2021, I invested in coins at the suggestion of an acquaintance, and the losses incurred using company funds were due to my immature judgment.”
Hwang Jung-eum also noted, “I am currently in the process of settling my transactions with the agency and have disposed of personal assets to repay most of the advances,” adding, “The remaining amount is also being addressed. I will fulfill my necessary responsibilities.”
Reactions from netizens regarding Hwang Jung-eum’s explanation are mixed. Some criticize her, stating, “Regardless, company money is company money,” “It’s not something to be proud of losing 4.2 billion in coin investments,” and “Surely not all her supercars, luxury homes, and ‘filial shopping’ are company funds,” while others comment, “Even if it is company funds, it essentially is her revenue, so it seems unfair to relentlessly attack her,” and “We must acknowledge her attitude of wanting to take responsibility,” with some expressing sympathy for her struggles as a mother of two.
Earlier, Hwang Jung-eum had showcased her comfortable lifestyle through the SBS Plus program ‘Because I’m Single,’ revealing a standalone house in Itaewon worth over 4.6 billion won, a supercar worth millions, and ‘filial shopping’ exceeding 2 million won. If all these expenditures stemmed from company funds, there’s no avoiding public outrage. However, her statement has led to assessments that “at least she is trying to take responsibility rather than fleeing,” focusing attention on how she will manage the situation and continue her activities in the entertainment industry.
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