Comedian Lee Jin-ho Referred Without Detention on Illegal Gambling Charges

Confessed to Illegal Gambling on Social Media Last October
Police Refer Case to Prosecution Six Months After Launching Investigation

Comedian Lee Jin-ho (39), who has been under police investigation for illegal gambling, has been referred to the prosecution.

On the 17th, Yonhap News reported that the Gangnam Police Station in Seoul sent Lee to the prosecution without detention on the 15th on charges of gambling.

Comedian Lee Jin-ho, who confessed to illegal internet gambling, is appearing at the Gangnam Police Station in Seoul on October 22 last year for related investigations. Photo by Yonhap News

Last October, Lee confessed to his illegal gambling through a lengthy post on social networking services (SNS). In the post, he revealed, "In 2020, by chance, I started playing games on an illegal online gambling site and ended up with debts that were difficult to handle." He added, "As a celebrity appearing on broadcasts, I regret the past days ruined by forgetting my duties and making wrong decisions." He also said, "The financial loss is one thing, but above all, I am very sorry to those who trusted me and lent me money. I will repay the remaining debt no matter what." Furthermore, Lee apologized, saying, "I bow my head and apologize to many people who were disappointed in me for causing social controversy and being desperate to hide it," and added, "I will sincerely cooperate with the police investigation and pay the price for my mistakes."

Subsequently, the police launched an investigation after receiving a complaint through the National Police Agency's online civil petition system requesting an investigation into Lee's gambling and fraud charges. The complainant wrote, "The police should thoroughly investigate Lee's habitual gambling and fraud charges to prevent criminals from running rampant in the popular culture and arts industry."

It is known that Lee borrowed about 2.3 billion won through fellow entertainers and loan companies to engage in illegal gambling. Lee debuted as a comedian in 2005 through SBS's special recruitment and gained great popularity as 'Woong's father.' He also appeared on entertainment programs such as JTBC's Knowing Bros and tvN's Comedy Big League.