In a dramatic turn of events, South Korean singer-actor Lee Seung-gi has publicly severed ties with his in-laws following renewed allegations of financial misconduct against his father-in-law, Lee Hong-heon. The 38-year-old star, known for his roles in popular K-dramas like “Mouse” (2021) and “The Law Cafe” (2022), issued a heartfelt apology to fans and victims of the alleged scandal, expressing regret over his earlier defense of his family member. The decision, announced through his agency Big Planet Made on April 29, 2025, has sent ripples through South Korea’s entertainment industry and reignited debates about personal accountability in the public eye.

Background of the Controversy

Lee Seung-gi married actress Lee Da-in, 32, in a high-profile wedding in April 2023. The couple welcomed their first child, a daughter, in February 2024. However, their union was met with skepticism from some of Lee Seung-gi’s fans, who feared that his carefully curated, clean-cut image might be tarnished by association with Lee Da-in’s family. Her mother, veteran actress Kyeon Mi-ri, and stepfather, businessman Lee Hong-heon, have been linked to allegations of financial impropriety for nearly a decade, casting a shadow over the couple’s personal milestones.

According to reports from South Korean media, Lee Hong-heon was first charged in 2016 with manipulating stock prices of a listed company between 2014 and 2016. In 2018, he was sentenced to four years in prison and fined 2.5 billion won (US$1.85 million, based on exchange rates as of May 24, 2025). Kyeon Mi-ri, known for her antagonistic role in the historical drama “Jewel In The Palace” (2003-2004), was reportedly a major shareholder in the company at the time. Although Lee Hong-heon was acquitted by an appellate court in 2019, the South Korean Supreme Court overturned that ruling in June 2024, ordering a retrial. More recently, as reported by online news outlet Chosun Biz on April 29, 2025, he was arrested again for alleged stock price manipulation involving a renewable energy firm.

Lee Seung-gi’s Public Statement

In a press release issued through his agency, Lee Seung-gi expressed profound disappointment over the latest developments. “My father-in-law was fined in a trial on allegations of illegal activities that had been continuously raised against him, but recently, he has been indicted by the authorities again over similar illegal acts” he said. He added, “As someone who has waited for the outcome based on trust between family members, I am devastated about my father-in-law’s misconduct.”

Reflecting on his earlier remarks in support of Lee Hong-heon, the actor admitted to a lapse in judgment. “I deeply regret the careless remarks I made last year without sufficiently reviewing the matter related to my father-in-law” he stated. “I believe that appropriate punishment must be given for illegal acts, and I sincerely apologise to the victims who suffered due to my hasty judgment.”

Lee Seung-gi concluded by announcing a decisive step: “The trust between the family members has been damaged irreparably due to this incident. After much deliberation, my wife and I have decided to cut ties with my in-laws. I once again bow and apologise for causing concern and disappointment due to my personal matters.”

Public and Fan Reactions

The announcement has sparked a range of reactions among fans and the broader South Korean public. While some admirers of Lee Seung-gi have praised his transparency and willingness to take responsibility, others remain critical of his initial defense of his father-in-law. Social media platforms have been abuzz with discussions, with many expressing sympathy for Lee Da-in, who now finds herself at the center of a deeply personal and public conflict.

For an industry that often places immense pressure on celebrities to maintain flawless reputations, this incident highlights the challenges of navigating personal relationships under intense scrutiny. Lee Seung-gi, long regarded as a model of professionalism in South Korea’s entertainment scene, now faces the task of rebuilding trust with a fanbase that has been divided over his marriage from the outset.

Broader Implications for Celebrity Culture

The controversy surrounding Lee Seung-gi’s in-laws also raises questions about the intersection of personal life and public image in South Korea’s highly competitive entertainment industry. Celebrities often face expectations to uphold moral and ethical standards that extend beyond their professional roles, with family associations sometimes becoming a liability. This case, while deeply personal, underscores a recurring theme in K-pop and K-drama circles, where scandals involving relatives can have lasting impacts on a star’s career.

Moreover, the allegations against Lee Hong-heon—if proven—could contribute to ongoing public discourse in South Korea about corporate accountability and the integrity of financial markets. Stock manipulation scandals have historically drawn significant attention in the country, often fueling calls for stricter regulations and oversight of listed companies. While Lee Seung-gi and his wife are not directly implicated in the alleged misconduct, their decision to distance themselves from the family may reflect a broader desire to protect their own reputations amid heightened scrutiny.

Looking Ahead

As the legal proceedings against Lee Hong-heon unfold, the spotlight remains on Lee Seung-gi and Lee Da-in, who must now navigate the complexities of family estrangement while maintaining their public personas. For fans, the coming months will likely serve as a litmus test of the couple’s resilience and the actor’s ability to reclaim the trust of his audience. Meanwhile, the South Korean entertainment industry watches closely, reminded once again of the fragile balance between personal choices and public expectations.