Lee Junho Completes Tax Payments Following Intensive Investigation

Singer and actor Lee Junho has recently completed the payment of additional taxes after undergoing a rigorous tax investigation by the National Tax Service (NTS). On December 26, it was reported that the Seoul Regional Tax Office's Investigation Division 2 conducted a non-regular tax audit on Lee Junho in September 2023, resulting in a significant tax assessment. This audit was part of a broader initiative targeting high-net-worth individuals, specifically under the 'Corporate Artist Non-Regular Integrated Tax Audit' program.

In response, JYP Entertainment, Lee Junho's agency, clarified that he cooperated fully with the investigation and emphasized that it was not prompted by any allegations of tax evasion. The agency stated, "Lee Junho diligently filed his taxes based on the advice of his tax representatives, and the additional taxes were paid due to differing perspectives between the tax authorities and his representatives."

They further noted, "This was the first non-regular tax audit Lee Junho has faced in his 17-year career, and he complied with all legal requirements. Any claims of intentional tax evasion are unfounded."

Lee Junho is known for his keen interest in financial investments and real estate. In 2019, he acquired two units in the luxury officetel 'The Reverse Cheongdam' located in Cheongdam-dong, Gangnam, with current market values estimated between 1.5 billion to 1.8 billion KRW each. He invested in these units during the pre-construction phase and reportedly made substantial profits.

Additionally, in March 2023, he purchased a commercial building in Sinsa-dong, Gangnam, under the name of his family corporation, JF Company, for 17.5 billion KRW. This property was previously owned by the late actress Kang Soo-yeon, who bought it for 8 billion KRW in 2017.

The reasons behind the NTS's decision to audit Lee Junho remain unclear. However, JYP Entertainment reiterated that the investigation was not related to any tax evasion allegations and confirmed that the additional taxes were a result of differing views between the tax authorities and his representatives.

On another note, Lee Junho has chosen to star in the upcoming Netflix series 'Cashierro.' The show follows a civil servant, Kang Sang-woong, who gains superpowers that grow stronger with the cash he holds, as he embarks on a mission to save the world using his salary. Lee Junho will portray the lead role, showcasing a dynamic transformation into a unique superhero.