AI-generated Lee Jung-jae used to swindle victim out of $370,000 in romance scam
Actor Lee Jung-jae’s agency vows legal action after victim falls prey to a romance scam using his identity. Newsis
A romance scam involving a fake account posing as actor Lee Jung-jae has led to financial losses, prompting his agency to announce strong legal action.
Artist Company, which represents Lee, said on Wednesday, “A recent crime has occurred in which individuals impersonated our artist to demand money and obtain financial gain. We make it clear that neither the company nor any of our artists ever request money, bank transfers or financial support under any circumstances.”
The agency also urged vigilance among fans and the public. “If you are contacted with such requests, please do not respond and take extra caution to avoid becoming a victim of fraud,” it said. “We are currently cooperating with authorities to verify the facts and will take firm action to protect the safety of our artist and fans.”
According to police, a group of scammers used AI-generated photos of Lee and a forged driver’s license to deceive a woman in her 50s, defrauding her of around 500 million won ($370,000). Investigators are looking into possible links between the suspects and a criminal organization based in Cambodia.
This article from Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by generative AI and edited by The Korea Times.