Hwang Jung Eum is facing significant changes to her presence on the variety show Because I’m Solo, as producers plan to minimize her appearance due to ongoing allegations of embezzling approximately 4.3 billion KRW (about $3.3 million) from her company. According to a report from Star News on May 16, the final episode airing on May 20 will feature reduced screen time for the K-pop star amid these serious allegations.
Initially, Hwang was slated to appear as a studio MC alongside Shin Dong Yup, but without any pre-recorded segments for the finale. Instead, the episode will include actresses Park Eun Hye and Ye Ji Won, who will share their daily lives as “solo sisters.”
Although the last episode was filmed prior to the revelation of these allegations, the production team has decided to heavily edit her portions during post-production in light of the controversy. Hwang had been engaging with audiences throughout the season, sharing insights into her own solo life.
Hwang was charged without detention for the embezzlement case, which involved funds she admitted to having invested in cryptocurrency. On May 15, she released a statement expressing regret, saying, “I sincerely apologize for causing concern… I made an immature judgment.” She noted that she has repaid a significant portion of the withdrawn funds and is working towards full resolution with her company.
The family-owned corporation in question is separate from her current agency, Y·ONE Entertainment. Hwang’s involvement in the investment has raised questions about her future roles in entertainment.
