Ex-Footballer Lee Chun-soo Denies Fraud Allegations: 'Money Given Freely, Willing to Repay'

Former South Korean national football team player Lee Chun-soo has responded to allegations of fraud involving hundreds of millions of won.

The Jeju Police Agency has launched an investigation after receiving a complaint accusing Lee of fraud. The accuser, identified as Mr. A, claims he lent Lee approximately 132 million won for living expenses, which has not been repaid. Mr. A also alleges that Lee induced him to invest 500 million won in foreign exchange futures trading, of which only a portion has been recovered.

According to the complaint, Mr. A transferred a total of 132 million won to Lee's spouse's account across nine instances between November 2018 and April 2021, with a promise of repayment by the end of 2023. However, he claims contact was lost in the autumn of 2021 and no repayment has been made.

Furthermore, Mr. A stated that in April 2021, he was advised to invest 500 million won in a foreign exchange futures trading platform belonging to an acquaintance of Lee, with promises of monthly profit distribution and principal repayment. He reportedly recovered only about 160 million won from this investment.

In response, Lee's side has acknowledged receiving the money but denies any fraudulent intent, stating the funds were given with the understanding that he could use them freely. They assert a willingness to repay the money and have dismissed the foreign exchange trading investment claims as baseless.

Police are currently examining the statements from both parties and financial records to ascertain the facts. Lee Chun-soo, after retiring from football, had announced plans for broadcasting activities, running a YouTube channel, and establishing a football academy.

Netizens are expressing caution, with comments like 'The truth needs to be revealed,' 'What's the real story?', and 'Hope this doesn't lead to losing a friend over money.'