BIGHIT MUSIC Briefly Addresses Lee Jin Ho's Debt To BTS's Jimin Amid Illegal Gambling Scandal

Oct 14, 2024

BIGHIT MUSIC has addressed the financial losses suffered by BTS’s Jimin after he lent money to comedian Lee Jin Ho.

On October 14, Lee Jin Ho revealed that he has accumulated significant debts due to illegal gambling and has “sought financial assistance from many people.”

While he claims to be repaying the debt steadily each month and intends to settle it in full, TenAsia has reported that the total debt amounts to hundreds of millions of won. Among those affected are BTS’s Jimin, Lee Soo Geun, Young Tak, Ha Sung Woon, as well as various broadcasting executives, producers, and writers who lent money to Lee Jin Ho.

The report stated that some celebrities who trusted Lee Jin Ho and lent him money without a promissory note are now at risk of facing hefty tax bills from authorities as these transactions were classified as “gifts” instead of “loans.” Additionally, some have reportedly opted to file fraud charges against Lee Jin Ho and pursue the seizure of his appearance fees.

Notably, TenAsia revealed that when they inquired directly with HYBE regarding the situation, it was disclosed that Lee Jin Ho approached BTS’s Jimin in 2022, claiming he needed urgent funds and wanted to borrow 100 million won (approximately $73,600) for just one week. Although a promissory note was signed, Lee Jin Ho failed to adhere to the agreement. Jimin reportedly concluded that Lee Jin Ho had no intention of repaying the money and decided to show mercy by saying, “Just pay me back within 10 years.”

In response to the unfolding situation, BIGHIT MUSIC confirmed, “As reported, it is indeed true that financial damage has occurred [to Jimin]. He lent money with a signed promissory note.”

Following this controversy, Lee Jin Ho has been confirmed to step down from “Knowing Bros” (“Ask Us Anything”). He also did not attend the press conference for Netflix’s variety show “Comedy Revenge,” which took place on the morning of October 14.

source: Soompi