A man in his 40s has been implicated in a blackmail attempt against national soccer team captain Son Heung Min, according to a report from JTBC’s ‘Crime Chief‘. The individual had contacted the production team about a month ago, claiming to have evidence related to Son but subsequently vanished when asked for supporting documentation.
On May 16, ‘Crime Chief’ revealed the man initially made contact on the 21st of last month, indirectly referencing Son by describing him as a “current Korean national team player in Europe.” He made comments suggesting a hidden wrongdoing, stating he wanted both parties to face consequences.
During the call, the man claimed he found sensitive files on his girlfriend’s phone, which allegedly included financial exchanges and a confidentiality agreement. He recounted, “She told me she had an abortion and wrote the agreement to keep it a secret. The incident happened last June.”
He further accused Son’s agency of refusing to amend the confidentiality terms, mentioning a significant sum of 3 billion KRW (approx. 2.2 million USD) for breach of contract. Upon being turned down, he asserted he ended his relationship due to concerns over potential repercussions, but many find it dubious that a third party could demand changes to such an agreement.
While the man claimed to possess additional evidence, including messages and medical records, he ceased communication before showing any proof.
Son Heung Min’s representatives responded, stating, “Since the matter was settled last June, there’s been no further contact from the woman involved.” However, they noted that threats began surfacing from the man in early March. He alleged that his girlfriend was pregnant with Son’s child and demanded 70 million KRW (approx. 50,000 USD) in exchange for not going public.
After enduring several months of intimidation, Son was informed of the situation. He reportedly decided to take legal action, stating, “Let’s stop suffering from these false claims and take strong action.”
Son’s team confirmed his past relationship with the woman but denied any claims related to pressuring her. They emphasized attempts to clarify facts were met with demands for 300 million KRW (approx. 214,000 USD), prompting the need to address the extortion threat before it could damage Son’s career.
The police are currently investigating both the man and the woman on charges of attempted extortion, with arrest warrants already applied for.
