BTS’s Jimin has recently been the victim of a financial scam involving South Korean comedian Lee Jin Ho, a well-known figure in the entertainment industry. The scandal came to light after Lee confessed to his gambling addiction, which led him to borrow large sums of money from various celebrities, including Jimin.
In 2022, Jimin lent Lee ₩100 million KRW (approximately $74,100 USD) under the assumption that Lee would pay him back as promised in a signed promissory note. However, Lee never repaid the money, leaving Jimin with a significant financial loss. The incident has drawn attention due to Jimin’s global fame, and fans and netizens alike have expressed their outrage and sympathy for the BTS member.
BigHit Music, Jimin’s agency, confirmed the scam, stating that the financial damage was real and clarifying that Jimin had only acted with kindness in writing the promissory note for Lee Jin Ho. The comedian’s agency, SM C&C, has yet to release a formal statement addressing the issue, but Lee’s confession of his gambling problem has created further tension regarding his future in the entertainment industry.
Lee Jin Ho’s position on the popular show Knowing Bros is now under review, as producers assess his involvement in the scam and the impact it could have on the show’s reputation. This scandal is not only affecting his career but has also sparked widespread discussions about gambling addiction and the exploitation of trust between celebrities.
For Jimin, the situation has been particularly painful, with fans expressing their shock and support on social media. Many have criticized the actions of scammers who exploit even those in high-profile positions, emphasizing the emotional and financial toll this has likely taken on Jimin