Lee Min Ki’s agency has officially addressed the recent controversy surrounding his tax investigation and penalties.
Sangyeong ENT released an official statement on May 20th, saying, “We sincerely apologize for causing concern through this matter.”
The agency continued, “Lee Min Ki has consistently complied with tax laws and faithfully fulfilled his responsibilities as a taxpayer since his debut.” They added, “He transparently submitted all relevant materials and fully cooperated with the recent tax investigation.”
Earlier, reports stated that the National Tax Service carried out tax investigations into both Lee Min Ki and Lee Yi Kyung, who are both signed under Sangyeong ENT. According to industry sources, the Seoul Regional Tax Office investigated the two actors around March and April and reportedly imposed large tax penalties.
Attention also grew after reports surfaced that Lee Min Ki had established and operated a one-person agency in Seoul’s Gwangjin District in 2021 while still signed with Sangyeong ENT. It was later reported that he moved the company’s registered address to the same building as Sangyeong ENT in 2023.
In response, the agency explained, “The outcome of this tax investigation resulted from differences in interpretation between the tax authorities and our company regarding accounting and expense processing standards during corporate operations.” They emphasized, “There was absolutely no intentional tax evasion or concealment of income through illegal means.” The agency added, “We respect the National Tax Service’s decision and have fully paid the imposed penalties in accordance with the proper procedures.”
The statement concluded, “We will further strengthen our tax and accounting management systems to prevent similar issues from happening again,” adding, “We will continue to fulfill our tax obligations faithfully while complying with all laws and regulations.”
Meanwhile, Lee Min Ki is set to star in an upcoming drama titled Grim Reaper’s Life Extension Project (literal translation) alongside Hyungwon of MONSTA X.
>> Lee Yi Kyung’s Team Addresses Tax Evasion Claims
In the meantime, watch trending K-dramas for free on Amasian TV.
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