South Korean actress Hwang Jung-eum has been handed a two-year prison sentence, suspended for four years, after being convicted of embezzling approximately 4.34 billion won (around $3.1 million) from her management agency. The emotional scene unfolded as she left the Jeju District Court, where the verdict was delivered.
Although prosecutors initially sought a three-year jail term, the court took a more lenient approach, citing Hwang’s status as a first-time offender and her full repayment of the embezzled funds. Under the suspended sentence, she will avoid jail time unless she commits another crime during the four-year probation period.
Funds Used Primarily for Cryptocurrency Investment
The embezzlement reportedly took place in early 2022, with Hwang redirecting around 4.2 billion won into cryptocurrency investments. The remaining funds were used for real estate and tax payments. According to her legal team, the money in question stemmed from her personal income, which had been temporarily placed under the agency’s name due to South Korea’s corporate restrictions on crypto holdings.
Her lawyers emphasized that this was not a case of malicious fraud, but rather a situation where she mishandled funds that were technically her own but administered under the company’s account.
Actress Expresses Deep Remorse for Her Actions
Hwang Jung-eum, best known for her roles in hit dramas like She Was Pretty and Kill Me, Heal Me, addressed the court with visible emotion. She expressed deep regret over the situation, stating that although she had intended to work honestly, she had neglected her financial responsibilities.
Her swift action in repaying the entire embezzled amount helped influence the court’s decision, demonstrating her commitment to making amends. The ruling serves as a stern warning, but also offers the actress an opportunity to rebuild both her personal and professional life—provided she abides by the law over the next four years.
