According to reports, the controversy centered on suspicions that actor Kim Seon-ho used a single-person corporation, where his parents were listed as executives, to reduce taxable income. Criticism arose after it was revealed that family living expenses were paid using a corporate credit card and that a company vehicle was allegedly used for personal purposes. The advertising industry reportedly reacted quickly, placing several spring-season campaigns involving the actor on hold.
Despite the criticism, some circumstances surrounding the case have raised questions about whether the issue was intentional tax evasion or administrative inexperience. It was reported that Kim Seon-ho received a large exclusive contract payment from his current agency through a personal bank account instead of a corporate account. Observers noted that if he had intended to reduce taxes deliberately, using a corporate account could have significantly lowered his tax burden. Instead, receiving the payment as personal income subjected him to higher tax rates.
Kim Seon-ho responded swiftly through his agency, stating that he deeply regrets starting corporate operations without fully understanding the system. He issued a public apology and took financial responsibility by returning the amounts related to improper corporate card usage and family salaries. In addition, he reportedly paid not only the required corporate tax but also additional personal income tax to fully resolve the matter.
Some voices have suggested that comparing the situation to serious criminal offenses such as drunk driving or drug-related crimes may be excessive, noting that the actor acknowledged his mistakes and resolved the financial obligations promptly.
Amid the controversy, Kim Seon-ho’s latest drama project, Can This Love Be Translated?, has continued to perform strongly on the global stage. According to Netflix, the series has maintained the No. 1 ranking among non-English-language dramas during its third week of release, gaining popularity across 43 countries. Many international fans have expressed support, emphasizing that the taxes were paid and the mistake was corrected, while continuing to praise the actor’s performance.
Kim Seon-ho is also preparing for an upcoming mystery romance drama in which he will take on the role of a painter. The project is expected to serve as an important opportunity for him to regain public confidence through his acting and strengthened self-management.
Sources: Netizenbuzz