KEMA: "Park Narae Incident Undermines Industry Order... Thorough Investigation Needed"

Comedian Park Narae. Provided by E&Company

Comedian Park Narae has become embroiled in allegations of workplace abuse against her manager and illegal medical practices, prompting the Korea Entertainment Management Association (KEMA) to express regret and call for a thorough investigation.

The Disciplinary Mediation and Management Committee, a special body under KEMA, issued a statement on December 17, saying, "Park Narae's actions seriously undermine the sound customs and order of the pop culture and arts industry, and hinder the industry's development."

Regarding claims that Park Narae's managers were not enrolled in the four major social insurances, the committee stated, "Failure to properly address this issue can be seen as illegal and as a negative act of shirking responsibility," and urged "a thorough investigation into the matter and appropriate punishment."

On the allegations of so-called "gapjil"-including forcing personal errands, verbal abuse, and physical assault against managers-the committee emphasized, "These are chronic bad practices that must be eradicated from the entertainment industry," and warned, "If these actions are confirmed to be true, the association will take all possible measures at its disposal."

With regard to allegations of illegal medical procedures-known as 'injection aunt' and 'IV aunt'-and claims of embezzlement, the committee stated, "These are serious illegal acts that damage the dignity of a public figure," and added, "A thorough investigation by the relevant authorities is needed, along with an official explanation from Park Narae's side."

The committee further stated, "Entertainers who earn income through public attention and support must bear significant responsibility as public figures," and added, "Continuing entertainment activities without sufficient self-reflection and responsible restraint should be avoided."

The Disciplinary Mediation and Management Committee is a permanent special body under KEMA, established in 2009 to mediate, coordinate, and arbitrate disputes within the entertainment management industry.