Another Korean Actor Faces Tax Evasion Allegations, Agency Issues Response
Lee Min Ki is facing a tax evasion controversy following a wave of similar scandals hitting other famous names like ASTRO’s Cha Eunwoo and actor Lee Yi Kyung.
The controversy began after the National Tax Service conducted a tax investigation targeting Sangyoung Ent’s actors Lee Yi Kyung and Lee Min Ki from March to April, recovering a large amount of taxes.
Soon after, Sangyoung Ent issued an apology on the 20th addressing the new allegations.
“We sincerely apologize for causing concern to many people due to this issue. Since his debut, Lee Min Ki has always complied with tax laws and faithfully fulfilled his tax obligations.” — Sangyoung Ent
The agency explained that Lee Min Ki fully cooperated with the tax investigation.
“During the recent tax investigation, relevant materials were transparently submitted, and he cooperated sincerely with the investigation.”
They emphasized the dispute stemmed from different interpretations of tax laws over cost accounting criteria in corporate operations.
“The results of this tax investigation arose from differences in interpretation of tax laws between the tax authorities and us regarding cost accounting criteria in corporate operations.”
“There was absolutely no intentional omission of income or fraudulent evasion.”
Sangyoung Ent confirmed they respect the tax office’s decision and have promptly paid the penalties.
“We respect the investigation results of the National Tax Service and have promptly paid the imposed penalty according to related procedures.”
The agency promised to review their tax and accounting systems to avoid any future issues.
“We sincerely apologize once again for causing concern to many people. We will thoroughly review our tax and accounting management systems to prevent similar incidents in the future. We will continue to comply with laws and principles and fulfill our tax obligations faithfully.”
The investigation and penalty mark another chapter in ongoing tax controversies hitting K-ent. Monitoring the situation as Lee Min Ki deals with these accusations publicly.