Actress Hwang Jung Eum receives suspended prison sentence for embezzling over $3M for crypto investments

South Korean actress Hwang Jung Eum. Photo from Hwang's Instagram

According to Yonhap News Agency, the Jeju District Court sentenced Hwang to two years in prison, suspended for four years.

The indictment, as reported by Korea JoongAng Daily, stated that Hwang embezzled the funds from her agency in early 2022. About 4.2 billion won was invested in cryptocurrency, while the remainder was used to pay property and local taxes via credit card.

At her first trial on May 15, Hwang admitted to all charges and requested that the trial continue so she could repay the full amount. By that time, she had already returned approximately 3 billion won. She later sold personal assets and completed repayment in two installments on May 30 and June 5, submitting documentation to the court.

"I was just trying to work hard and live honestly, but I neglected financial and tax matters, which led to this situation," Hwang said during her final hearing. "I am remorseful."

Hwang, 41, debuted in 2002 as a member of the idol group Sugar before leaving the group to pursue acting. She first gained recognition as an actress for her role in the 2009 sitcom "High Kick Through the Roof." She further rose to fame through popular dramas such as "Secret Love," "Kill Me, Heal Me," and "She Was Pretty."