Kang Dong-won, Song Ga-in, Kim Wan-sun Under Fire for Unregistered Entertainment Agencies

Following similar issues with singers Ok Joo-hyun and Sung Si-kyung, actor Kang Dong-won and singers Kim Wan-sun and Song Ga-in are now embroiled in controversy for operating their one-person entertainment agencies without registering as required.

Reports on the 18th revealed that Kang Dong-won established 'AA Group' in 2023 after his contract with YG Entertainment ended. Song Ga-in launched 'Gaindal Entertainment' last September, and Kim Wan-sun founded 'KW Sunflower' in 2020 with fan club executives. However, it has come to light that none of them fulfilled the mandatory registration requirements, causing a stir.

Under the current Performing Arts Industry Development Act, individuals or businesses engaging in artist management must register as a performing arts management business. Failure to comply can result in up to two years imprisonment or a fine of up to 20 million KRW.

In response, the agencies are quickly issuing explanations and taking corrective actions. Song Ga-in's agency stated, "We intended to start activities after establishing the agency, but the management company J Stars was unaware of this requirement. We will proceed with the registration application today." Kang Dong-won's side also commented, "We recognized the issue immediately upon the news report and are proceeding with the education and registration process." Kim Wan-seon's agency explained, "We are completing the administrative procedures after confirmation with our legal team."

Netizen reactions are divided. Some express disappointment, stating, "It's disappointing that even such basic procedures were not followed," while others urge understanding, saying, "They might have made a mistake out of ignorance" and "Let's wait and see as they are correcting it now."

Attention is focused on how this controversy, stemming from the artists' oversight in administrative procedures, will ultimately be resolved.

Kang Dong-won is an actor renowned for his charismatic roles in numerous films and dramas. He established himself as a leading handsome actor in Korean cinema in the early 2000s, boasting a unique aura and style that garnered a large fanbase. Beyond his acting career, he has been actively engaged in various other fields recently.