On October 14, BigHit Music confirmed that BTS member Jimin had suffered a financial loss of 1 billion won ($750,000) after lending money to comedian Lee Jin-ho, who has since admitted to illegal gambling. According to a statement from the agency, Jimin lent the money with a proper loan agreement in place, but it remains unclear when or if the amount will be repaid.
Reports indicate that in 2022, Lee borrowed 1 billion won from Jimin, stating that he needed the money for only a week. However, despite signing a loan agreement, Lee has failed to repay the debt in full. Sources close to the matter suggest that Jimin, out of goodwill, gave Lee a generous deadline of ten years to return the money.
The comedian’s confession detailed the emotional burden he has carried, fearing that his gambling debts would eventually become public. “Whenever an unknown number called, I would panic, thinking it might be about the debt. I lived in constant fear that my secret would be exposed,” Lee said. He also expressed deep remorse, pledging to repay the money and cooperate fully with the police investigation into his illegal activities. “I will work hard to repay every last bit of my debt, even if it takes a lifetime,” he added.
Lee’s confession has sparked controversy, as he is not the only celebrity affected by his financial troubles. Other well-known figures in the entertainment industry, including singers Young Tak, Ha Sung-woon, and comedian Lee Soo-geun, are also said to have suffered financial losses due to Lee's gambling.
As this situation unfolds, fans of Jimin and the other affected celebrities express their support, hoping for a swift resolution to the issue.
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