Popular South Korean comedian Lee Jin-ho has been formally prosecuted for illegal gambling, following a high-profile investigation that revealed he borrowed massive sums from fellow celebrities, including BTS member Jimin, to fund his gambling activities. The case, which has dominated headlines since late 2024, highlights the growing issue of illegal gambling within Korea’s entertainment industry.
Authorities allege that Lee Jin-ho, known for his roles on variety shows such as “Knowing Bros” and “Comedy Big League,” operated illegal gambling establishments and spent hundreds of millions of won on online gambling platforms. To finance his addiction, Lee reportedly borrowed more than 2.3 billion KRW (about $1.6 million USD) from a network of industry colleagues, friends, and private lenders. Notably, he is said to have taken 100 million KRW (around $70,000 USD) from BTS’s Jimin, as well as large sums from comedian Lee Su-geun and singer Ha Sung-woon.
The investigation began in earnest after Lee publicly admitted to his gambling problem on social media in October 2024, expressing regret and a commitment to repay his debts. Police later confirmed that Lee had borrowed extensively from acquaintances, including high-profile entertainers, and funnelled the money into illegal gambling sites. Despite the scale of the financial damage, fraud charges were not pursued because the alleged victims, including Jimin, declined to provide formal statements to authorities.
Lee Jin-ho’s case was transferred to prosecutors on charges of illegal gambling, with the police continuing to investigate the gambling sites involved. Lee has since withdrawn from all entertainment activities and issued multiple public apologies, vowing to repay those he owes and accept responsibility for his actions.
The scandal has effectively ended Lee’s entertainment career, with industry insiders noting that even if his legal troubles are resolved, a return to television is highly unlikely. The case also underscores the broader problem of illegal gambling in South Korea, where the underground market has grown rapidly in recent years.
As the legal process continues, public attention remains focused on whether additional charges or revelations will emerge, especially if any of the celebrities involved decide to break their silence or pursue further action. For now, Lee Jin-ho’s prosecution stands as a cautionary tale about the dangers of gambling addiction and the far-reaching consequences it can have on personal and professional lives.