Allegations of workplace abuse raised by former managers against comedian Park Na-rae have now expanded into suspicions of embezzlement of appearance fees.
Park claims that her former manager, identified as A, diverted tens of millions of won into her own private company while working for her. A, however, insists the transactions were “made with Park’s consent,” turning the issue into a battle over the truth.
According to a TenAsia report on the 19th, an appearance fee of 30 million won that Brand L was supposed to pay to Park’s agency, NPARK, was instead transferred to the bank account of YYAC, a private company owned by A. When asked to submit a business registration certificate and bank account copy for the contract, A reportedly provided documents from her own company rather than from the agency.
In addition, it was confirmed that in June last year, a 10 million won appearance fee from Brand D was deposited into the same YYAC account in the same manner. The tax invoice was also issued under YYAC’s name. The total amount in question now stands at at least 40 million won.
In response, A told several media outlets that the arrangement was “agreed upon with Park Na-rae,” adding that “all deposits, withdrawals, and contracts are carried out under Park’s confirmation.” She also stated that she fully explained the situation to investigators during a police questioning on December 20, and that the truth would be determined through the investigation.
Park’s side strongly denied this claim, saying, “Structurally, such an agreement could not have taken place, and there was no reporting, consultation, or approval at any stage.” Her team added that they are currently investigating whether there are additional similar cases.
Previously, Park had temporarily suspended her broadcasting activities following accusations from her former manager, including claims of workplace abuse and illegal medical procedures. The two sides are now engaged in ongoing legal disputes over the matter.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)