"Started Playing on Illegal Internet Gambling Site"
"Feared Every Day When It Would Be Revealed to the World"
"No Matter What Happens, Will Repay Everything"
Comedian Lee Jin-ho voluntarily confessed to illegal online gambling.
On the 14th, Lee Jin-ho wrote on his social media (SNS), "I am sorry. I am writing this to confess a shameful past caused by a wrong decision." He revealed, "In 2020, by chance, I started playing games on an illegal online gambling site and ended up with overwhelming debt. Thanks to the stern advice of acquaintances and the fear that I might never be able to do the work I love again, I came to my senses late and was able to quit gambling, but by then I had already received financial help from many people."
He continued, "I have been steadily repaying the money every month, and I plan to repay all this debt with my own strength until the day I die. The financial loss is one thing, but above all, I felt deeply sorry to those who trusted me and lent me money." He added, "Whenever I received calls from unknown numbers, my heart would race, fearing it might be related to my debts, and every day felt like being beaten by the fear of when this would become public."
Lee Jin-ho confessed, "I thought that if I confessed everything and was punished, at least I could be free from this anxiety, but since I had to work to repay even a little of the debt, I felt that such thoughts were selfish, so I couldn't make the decision easily. I am very ashamed and sorry." He also said, "As a celebrity appearing on broadcasts, I forgot my duty and ruined my past with a moment of poor judgment, which I sincerely regret. Even if I cannot become a good person who serves as a role model for others, I will at least work hard so that I am not someone who is pointed at by others."
Finally, he promised, "I vow to repay the remaining debt no matter what happens," and apologized, "I bow my head and sincerely apologize to many people who were disappointed in me for causing social controversy and trying desperately to hide it. I will also cooperate sincerely with the police investigation and pay the price for my mistakes. I am truly sorry."
Meanwhile, Lee Jin-ho debuted in 2005 as a comedian through SBS's 7th special recruitment and gained popularity as 'Woong's father.' He is currently appearing on JTBC's 'Knowing Bros' and is set to release Netflix's 'Comedy Revenge' on the 15th.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
