Celebs Under Fire: Lee Ha-nee, Kang Dong-won, and More Face Scrutiny Over Unregistered Agencies

A wave of controversy is sweeping through the entertainment industry as multiple celebrities, including actress Lee Ha-nee, are found to have been operating their personal agencies without proper registration. This issue has now ensnared prominent figures such as Kang Dong-won, Ok Ju-hyun, Sung Si-kyung, Kim Wan-sun, and Song Ga-in, highlighting a recurring problem with solo entertainment management firms.

Under current South Korean law, operating an entertainment agency without registering as a cultural and arts business can lead to severe penalties, including up to two years in prison or fines up to 20 million won. Lee Ha-nee's agency, 'Hope Project,' was reportedly operating in this unregistered capacity. Her representatives have since apologized, citing a lack of awareness regarding the registration obligations and promising to complete the necessary procedures promptly with expert consultation.

This is not an isolated incident. Previously, Kang Dong-won, Song Ga-in, and Kim Wan-sun also issued apologies for similar oversights and stated they were in the process of registering their agencies. Ok Ju-hyun and Sung Si-kyung similarly expressed deep regret, attributing the situation to a lack of knowledge about legal requirements.

Public reactions are divided. Some netizens are critical, questioning how well-known figures could overlook such basic legal requirements and suggesting it's more than just a simple mistake. Others are more lenient, suggesting the complex regulations might have led to oversights and proposing this as an opportunity to reform the industry's overall system.

Experts warn against dismissing these cases as mere administrative errors. The registration system for cultural and arts businesses, implemented in 2014, aims to protect artists' rights, prevent illegal operations, and ensure industry integrity. The requirements for registration are stringent, including practical experience, mandatory education, background checks for criminal records, and maintaining a separate office space.

In response, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has announced a grace period for registration until December 31st. After this period, unregistered agencies will face stricter measures, including administrative investigations and potential referrals for legal action. The ongoing series of registration controversies is fueling anxiety among industry insiders about who might be next, underscoring the urgent need for fundamental solutions to restore transparency and trust.

Lee Ha-nee is not only an acclaimed actress but also a talented individual with a background in traditional Korean music and dance. She publicly acknowledged her relationship with her now-husband, a peer, in 2017, and their marriage announcement in 2021, coupled with the news of her pregnancy, was met with widespread congratulations. Furthermore, she is recognized for her strong commitment and active participation in environmental conservation and animal welfare advocacy.