Kim Eo-jun "Appearance Fee Used for Ramen Shop?... Did Not Evade Taxes"

Broadcaster Kim Eo-jun. [Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Jumi Lee] Amid ongoing controversy over the appearance fees of broadcaster Kim Eo-jun, who hosts TBS Radio's 'Kim Eo-jun's News Factory,' Kim denied allegations that his appearance fees are paid to a one-person corporation operating a ramen shop.

On the 21st, on the radio show 'Kim Eo-jun's News Factory,' Kim said, "There have been continuous articles about my appearance fees, but is this a matter that could ruin the country?" He added, "There were articles suggesting that my appearance fees are paid to a ramen shop or that this is an illegal method."

He continued, "I have always said that there are no issues with the tax treatment of my appearance fees," and claimed, "I do not attempt tax reduction by creating a corporation to handle various expenses."

He emphasized, "I do not even attempt such measures," and "I do not try to reduce taxes in any way."

Previously, allegations arose that Kim received appearance fees through a one-person corporation, where he is registered as an inside director, to reduce taxes. It was reported that he established a company for TBS appearance fee deposits and reported income via corporate tax, which has a lower rate than comprehensive income tax, thereby paying less tax.

Dailyan reported on the 20th that at the address where 'Ddanji Group Co., Ltd.' and 'Kim Eo-jun Co., Ltd.,' the only companies where Kim is registered as an inside director, are located, a ramen shop named 'Ddanji Ramen' and a cafe called 'BUNKER1' are operating.

Meanwhile, TBS stated on the 15th that regarding the 'high appearance fee controversy' involving Kim, the appearance fees of the host are considered personal information and cannot be disclosed.