Korean Actor Hwang Jung-eum Receives Suspended Sentence for Crypto Embezzlement

South Korean actor Hwang Jung-eum has been handed a two-year prison sentence, suspended for four years, by the Jeju District Court for embezzling 4.34 billion won ($3 million) from her family-run agency to invest in cryptocurrency. Hwang, who admitted to the charges during her May 15 trial, has since repaid the full amount, including partial repayments made on May 30 and June 5 after liquidating personal assets.

The court cited her lack of prior offenses and full restitution as mitigating factors, rejecting prosecutors' call for a three-year prison term. Hwang's defense argued the funds were intended for company growth, attributing the misconduct to her limited accounting knowledge. The actor, known for roles in popular dramas like 'Kill Me, Heal Me,' expressed remorse during August proceedings for neglecting financial oversight.