“I am trying to escape and revive,” said Hwang Jung-eum. Having announced his return in tears on ‘SNL,’ he is now again on the brink due to the charges of embezzlement of 4.3 billion won.

Actor Hwang Jung-eum has recently been revealed to have been indicted without detention for embezzling approximately 4.3 billion won through a one-person management company in which he holds 100% equity in 2022. In particular, he has acknowledged investing company funds in cryptocurrency and currently has admitted to all charges in the first trial.

In response, Hwang Jung-eum expressed, “I am sorry for causing concerns with this shameful matter,” adding, “The company was based on the revenue earned from my entertainment activities, so it was a juvenile judgment.” He remarked, “Fortunately, there are no victims, and I have disposed of personal assets to repay a significant portion.”

However, public sentiment is cold. The SBS show ‘Solo’ he was regularly appearing on is deliberating whether to edit his scenes entirely as the final episode approaches on the 20th. The production team has stated, “We are waiting for the position of the agency,” but it is reported that discussions are still ongoing even after the apology.

Hwang Jung-eum made a tearful return as a host on Coupang Play’s ‘SNL Korea Season 5’ in March last year. It was his first variety show since announcing his divorce, and he candidly mentioned anecdotes involving Kim Yong-jun of SG Wannabe, who was a previous romantic partner, creating a resonance. He transformed past issues related to himself into humor in all segments, including “I am single,” “Money regulations for weddings,” and “Sugar on the Radio,” showcasing a new side to viewers.

In particular, Hwang Jung-eum noted, “This time, I will escape and revive,” referring to his performance in the show ‘The Revival of the Seven.’ At the end of the broadcast, he shed tears, expressing gratitude by saying, “Thank you for giving me courage.” The broadcast was regarded by viewers as the beginning of his second act in life, with the assessment that “Hwang Jung-eum’s sincerity was conveyed.”

However, having briefly caught his breath on ‘SNL,’ Hwang Jung-eum has now bowed his head in court. Whether he will be able to use the word “revive” again is still uncertain.

[Photo] OSEN DB, 'Solo' poster

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