On October 14, Jimin’s agency BigHit Music confirmed to Newsen, “As reported, it is true that financial damage occurred, and the money was lent with a promissory note. That is all.“
Earlier that day, Lee Jin-ho admitted through his social media account that he had started gambling on illegal online gambling sites in 2020 and had accumulated unmanageable debt.
He stated, “With harsh warnings from my acquaintances and the fear that I might never be able to continue the work I love, I finally came to my senses and quit gambling. However, I had already received financial help from many people.” He added, “I have been consistently repaying the debt every month and will make sure to pay off all of it with my own strength, no matter how long it takes. While the financial damage is significant, I feel even more sorry for those who trusted me and lent me money.”
A media outlet later reported that in 2024, Lee Jin-ho borrowed 100 million KRW from Jimin, claiming he needed it urgently for just a week, but did not repay it. It was also revealed that other celebrities had similarly lent money to Lee Jin-ho and suffered financial losses.
Lee Jin-ho’s agency SM C&C is reportedly reviewing his future activities following the situation.