Comedian Lee Jin-ho has sparked controversy amid illegal gambling allegations, resulting in all web content featuring him and Yang Se-chan being made private.
According to OSEN's confirmation, Korean Nintendo has transitioned all videos of "Jjinse Game Room," where Lee Jin-ho and Yang Se-chan play various Nintendo games, to private status. The decision appears to be a reaction to the controversy surrounding Lee Jin-ho's illegal gambling activity. On October 14, Lee confessed on his social media about becoming involved with illegal online gambling in 2020 and accumulating unmanageable debts.
Lee expressed deep remorse, especially towards those who trusted him and lent him money, detailing the anxiety and fear he faced daily regarding his debts being exposed. His situation has escalated significantly; reports indicate that he borrowed money from fellow celebrities including BTS's Jimin, as well as producers and other industry officials. He allegedly made excuses regarding matters like his parents and taxes during these transactions.
Lee's illegal gambling scandal has also affected the variety shows he participated in. The production team for "Comedy Revenge," which was filming when the allegations arose, received shocking news just one hour before a scheduled press conference. Due to the show's formatting and timing constraints, editing out his segments proved unfeasible.
JTBC's "Knowing Brothers," where Lee had been a regular since 2021, has decided to cut him from the show entirely. Additionally, the city of Hwaseong, which appointed him as an ambassador, is currently reviewing related regulations to terminate his position. Meanwhile, police have initiated a preliminary investigation into Lee's illegal gambling claims, having received a report regarding his gambling and fraud allegations.