Kang Ho-dong, a popular comedian who voluntarily retired following investigations into tax fraud, has decided to donate al of his shares and profits from restaurant franchise Yukchilpal (literally six, seven, eight).

Kang had recently donated land he owned in Pyongchang, Kangwon Province, which had been the focus of a probe into speculative investment, and provided financial support for projects in Africa.

A person close to Kang said, “He has been a Korean wrestling champion, a successful entertainer and he is now in the process of returning to normal, average livelihood.

“Kang has been taking time off to relax and contemplate about his life but he is determined to return some of the love and encouragement he has received.”

Kim Gi-gon, CEO of Yukchilpal, is not only donating his ownership and profits from the company but asking franchises to participate in sharing with other members of society.”

These activities have helped to circulate rumors that Kang is planning to come back to the public stage, having attended a wedding as the first public appearance in seven months.

The reality is, said another source close to Kang, is that people in the entertainment industry have constantly nudge him to come back to the public stage and in fact, he signed a contract with SM Entertainment last week, indicating that his return to broadcasting is indeed imminent.