Famous Actor Hit With Multi-Billion Tax Bill After Intense Audit, Igniting Controversy
Ji Chang Wook is facing a major tax controversy after an unscheduled audit by the Seoul Regional Tax Office.
The intense tax investigation lasted several weeks this past March. Officials reviewed the timing of income reporting from his domestic and international work, plus the legality of his appearance fees and expense claims through agencies.
The National Tax Service found issues with some expenses and tax filings, hitting Ji Chang Wook with back taxes worth billions of won. They said this case was related to how agencies were set up and operated, similar to what happened with actors Lee Yi Kyung and Lee Min Ki.
A tax industry insider explained:
“We proceeded with the tax filings based on the judgment that these were legitimate expenses made for entertainment activities, but I understand that the tax authorities levied taxes by deeming them personal expenditure, for which legal recognition under tax law is unclear.”
K-Netizens reacted with disappointment and demanded broad investigations into all actors.
| theqoo
| theqoo
Comments from K-Netizens include:
“I liked him…that’s too bad..see ya!”
“Those who have more always want more.”
“They need to investigate everyone.”
“All the actors are getting exposed.”
“When are they going to just use AI for actors?”
“Celebrities make so much money, yet look at what they are doing. They all need to be investigated.”
“Just pay your goddamn taxes!”
His agency said they are currently:
“in the process of verifying the facts.”
The situation continues to develop as fans and netizens wait for more updates on Ji Chang Wook’s tax audit fallout.