Police Launch Preliminary Investigation into Jinho Lee over Illegal Gambling

Investigation Request Filed via National Sinmungo Portal
"Thorough Probe Needed into Jinho Lee's Habitual Gambling and Fraud Allegations"

The police have launched a preliminary investigation into comedian Jinho Lee (38), who recently admitted to engaging in illegal online gambling.

According to Yonhap News on October 15, the Gangnam Police Station in Seoul has begun a preliminary inquiry after receiving a petition via the National Sinmungo portal from a citizen requesting an investigation into Jinho Lee for habitual gambling and fraud. A police official stated, "We will review the details of the petition before deciding whether to formally open a case." However, since Jinho Lee himself has confessed to illegal gambling, it is expected that the police will soon proceed with a formal investigation.

Comedian Jinho Lee.
[Photo by SM C&C]

Earlier that day, the petitioner posted on the online community DC Inside, revealing that they had personally filed the petition with the National Sinmungo portal the previous day.

The petitioner stated, "Jinho Lee is a well-known public figure, and every action he takes has a significant social impact." They added, "Numerous celebrities and sports stars have already been involved in illegal gambling, causing great disappointment to the public, yet such controversies continue to arise." The petitioner went on to urge, "The police must thoroughly investigate Jinho Lee for habitual gambling and fraud to prevent further lawbreaking in the pop culture and arts industry," and called for "strict punishment for those who have operated illegal gambling sites, including charges related to running such establishments."

On the previous day, Jinho Lee posted on his Instagram, stating, "In 2020, I started playing games on an illegal online gambling site by chance, which led me to incur debts I could not handle." He continued, "Thanks to stern advice from acquaintances and the fear that I might never be able to do the work I love again, I was able to come to my senses and quit gambling, albeit belatedly. However, by then, I had already received financial help from many people." He added, "I have been steadily repaying the money every month, and I am determined to pay off all my debts on my own, no matter how long it takes-even for the rest of my life."

Jinho Lee also expressed, "As a public figure appearing on television, I deeply regret the past days I ruined with a moment of poor judgment, forgetting my responsibilities." He added, "I will sincerely cooperate with the police investigation and accept the consequences of my wrongdoing."

Meanwhile, Jinho Lee debuted in 2005 as a special recruit comedian at SBS and gained recognition through public comedy shows such as SBS's 'Utchatsa,' MBC's 'Hatangsa,' tvN's 'Comedy Big League,' as well as variety programs including JTBC's 'Knowing Bros.'