While actress Hwang Jung-eum is facing charges of embezzling company funds amounting to about 4.2 billion won, her display of luxury cars and shopping 'flex' shown in a recent broadcast is receiving renewed attention and shocking the public.
On the 13th, during the broadcast of SBS Plus 'Because I'm Single', Hwang Jung-eum was seen enjoying a 'filial piety date' with her father, who lives in Jeju. Hwang Jung-eum took her father to a favorite boutique, where she personally chose clothes for him from head to toe, making a notable purchase of seven items for 2.17 million won in a four-month installment plan. She expressed her affection, saying, 'I like it when Dad dresses stylishly.'
After shopping, the father and daughter moved to the Han River, where they had a special time sailing on a rented yacht with the help of an acquaintance. While taking pictures against the backdrop of the sunset with her father's saxophone performance, Hwang Jung-eum conveyed her gratitude, stating, 'Thanks to my parents, I was able to endure tough times during my childhood.' Her father encouraged her, saying, 'I believed in you. Thank you for enduring well,' which brought forth a touching moment.
However, this heartwarming scene turned upside down just two days later. Hwang Jung-eum attended her first trial on the 15th, where she is accused of embezzling about 4.34 billion won of company funds, of which 4.2 billion won was reportedly invested in virtual currency. It is known that she received funds borrowed under the name of the agency, in which she held 100% equity, in the form of 'advance payments' for personal use.
Previously, in March, during 'Because I'm Single,' Hwang Jung-eum drew attention with her statement, 'I bought this luxury sports car as a gift to myself after the divorce. I believe in spending future earnings in advance.' With her previous purchase of 2.17 million won 'filial piety flex' added to this, the scenes from the broadcast currently have a bittersweet effect.
Internet users reacted coldly, saying, 'Wasn't this shopping with company funds?', 'It's not future earnings but rather spending money that isn't even there,' and 'Now all the broadcast scenes feel uncomfortable.' Some suggested, 'Let's wait for Hwang Jung-eum's side as well.'
Meanwhile, Hwang Jung-eum owns a luxury standalone house in Itaewon (worth about 4.6 billion won), which has recently garnered attention again due to rising property values after four years. The production team of her regular show 'Because I'm Single' stated, 'We are confirming the facts' and are discussing whether to edit the content. That evening, Hwang Jung-eum issued an official statement, apologizing, 'I am sorry for causing concern to many people due to this shameful situation.'
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