The South Korean entertainment industry is abuzz with the recent legal turmoil surrounding Ahn Sung Hyun, husband of actress and former Fin.K.L member Sung Yuri. Ahn is facing a potential 7-year prison sentence over allegations of fraud and conspiracy involving virtual currency.
Details of Ahn Sung Hyun’s Sentencing Hearing and Penalties
During a sentencing hearing held on October 29 at the Seoul Southern District Court, prosecutors sought a 7-year prison term for Ahn, along with a substantial fine and asset confiscations. The prosecution requested a fine of 2 billion won (approximately USD 1.5 million), confiscation of two luxury watches, and a surcharge of 1.5 billion won (approximately USD 1.1 million).
In addition to Ahn, Lee Sang Jun, the former CEO of Bithumb Holdings, faces a 5-year prison sentence, the seizure of 30.5 million won (approximately USD 22,800), and a surcharge of 1.525 billion won (around USD 1.1 million). Prosecutors allege both Ahn and Lee conspired to list a virtual currency on the Bithumb exchange and, in doing so, engaged in fraudulent activities that defrauded multiple individuals and organizations.
Accusations Against Ahn Sung Hyun and Lee Sang Jun
According to reports, Ahn Sung Hyun and Lee Sang Jun are accused of accepting significant financial compensation and gifts from Kang Jong Hyun, a businessman, between September and November 2021. Allegedly, in exchange for listing a coin identified as “A” on the Bithumb platform, they received 3 billion won (approximately USD 2.2 million) in cash, two luxury watches valued at 400 million won (about USD 300,000), and a restaurant membership card worth 11.5 million won (approximately USD 8,500).
Further complicating the case, Ahn Sung Hyun is also charged with deceiving Kang Jong Hyun by falsely claiming that Lee Sang Jun urgently needed 2 billion won (around USD 1.5 million) for the listing process. Prosecutors allege this deception led Ahn to embezzle an additional 2 billion won, violating South Korea’s Specific Economic Crimes Weighted Act and committing fraud.
Ahn and Lee, who were both indicted on September 8, 2022, have denied the accusations and continue to await final judgment.
Background on Ahn Sung Hyun and His Relationship with Sung Yuri
The case has brought Ahn Sung Hyun into the spotlight not only for his alleged criminal involvement but also because of his marriage to Sung Yuri, a renowned actress and former member of the popular K-pop girl group Fin.K.L. Ahn, a professional golfer who debuted in 2005, married Sung Yuri in 2017, and the couple welcomed twin daughters together. Sung Yuri, known for her roles in dramas such as Thousand Years of Love and Snow Queen, has remained largely out of the media’s eye since her marriage. However, this high-profile case has reignited public interest in her personal life.
Scheduled Verdict and Industry Reactions
The court has set December 26 as the date for the final verdict on Ahn Sung Hyun’s case. If convicted, Ahn could face substantial prison time, fines, and asset confiscations, which could profoundly impact both his family and professional life.
The case has generated significant discussion within the entertainment and business sectors. Observers are particularly attentive to how the final decision may affect the broader conversation around the regulation of virtual currencies in South Korea, as well as the reputational impact on Sung Yuri, given her prominent status in the entertainment industry.
For ongoing updates on this case and other K-Pop and K-Drama entertainment news, stay tuned to Vviptimes.
Sources: Nate News
