Lee Seung-gi announces severance of ties with in-laws over father-in-law’s misconduct

Singer and actor Lee Seung-gi / Courtesy of Big Planet Made Entertainment

Singer and actor Lee Seung-gi said Tuesday that he is cutting ties with his in-laws, expressing deep disappointment over his father-in-law’s repeated involvement in stock manipulation.

In an official statement issued on Tuesday, he said, "It is with a heavy heart that I deliver this message. Although my father-in-law was previously fined in an appellate court over ongoing legal issues, he has recently been indicted again for similar misconduct. Having waited for the outcome based on family trust, I can no longer contain my devastated feelings regarding his actions."

Lee also reflected on his past comments, saying, "I deeply regret speaking carelessly last year without thoroughly reviewing the matter involving my father-in-law."

He said that he believes appropriate punishment should be carried out for any wrongdoing.

"I sincerely apologize to the victims who may have suffered due to my hasty judgment," he said. "I also feel deeply sorry to everyone who believed in me and supported me."

Lee said that the trust within his family has been damaged to a point beyond repair. "After long and careful consideration, my wife and I have decided to sever ties with my in-laws," he said. "From now on, I will strive to uphold stronger values and live responsibly to contribute to a healthier society."

He ended his statement by once again apologizing for disappointing the public.

Lee married actor Lee Da-in in 2023. His agency, Big Planet Made Entertainment, previously explained that the stock manipulation charges involving Lee's father-in-law dated back to 2016, before their marriage, and stressed that it was "a matter for the family to resolve."

At a press conference for his film "About Family," Lee commented on family matters, saying, "What happens with my in-laws is their business. After getting married, my wife and I established an independent family. Still, if I have caused any misunderstanding, I will be more careful in the future."

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, a sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI and edited by The Korea Times.