Former National Soccer Player Lee Chun-soo Accused of Fraud, Allegedly Swindled Over 630 Million Won

Former South Korean national soccer team player Lee Chun-soo is facing a lawsuit over fraud allegations.

According to a report by CBS Nocut News on the 4th, the Jeju Provincial Police Agency has booked Lee Chun-soo on charges of violating the Act on Special Cases Concerning the Punishment of Economic Crimes and General Penalties (Fraud).

The accuser, identified as Mr. A, claims that Lee Chun-soo borrowed money under the pretext of living expenses starting in November 2018. Lee allegedly promised to repay the full amount by the end of 2023, citing plans to operate a YouTube channel and a soccer academy. However, Mr. A alleges that Lee received a total of 132 million won over nine separate occasions and failed to repay it.

Furthermore, Mr. A accuses Lee of embezzling hundreds of millions of won by soliciting investments in an 'foreign exchange building trading site.' According to the complaint, Lee persuaded Mr. A in April 2021 to invest 500 million won, promising monthly profit distribution and principal repayment upon request. In total, Mr. A claims to have lent Lee 632 million won, encompassing both living expenses and investment funds. Mr. A stated that he has only received a portion of the investment profits for one to two months and 160 million won of the principal.

Mr. A alleges that Lee has been unreachable since the fall of 2021 and has not repaid any of the promised amounts.

In response, Lee Chun-soo stated in an interview that while he received the money, he claims it was 'given to be used freely' during a period when Mr. A was earning a lot. Lee vehemently denies any intent of fraud and asserts his willingness to repay the debt. Regarding the investment funds, Lee denied ever introducing or recommending investment in any foreign exchange futures trading site.

Netizens expressed shock and disappointment upon hearing the news, with comments like "Can't believe Lee Chun-soo is involved in this too," "Hope the truth comes out soon," and "It's sad that such incidents keep happening in the soccer community."