Once celebrated as one of South Korea’s most beloved actresses and a symbol of the Hallyu Wave, Song Hye-kyo saw her spotless reputation crumble in 2014 when she was implicated in a major tax evasion scandal.
The Scandal That Shocked Korea
On August 19, 2014, the National Tax Service of Korea revealed that the Song Hye-kyo had underreported her personal income between 2009 and 2011, evading taxes amounting to 2.5 billion KRW. The revelation came after three consecutive years of underpayment, during which Song Hye-kyo continued her work and public appearances without disclosure.
Her agency initially claimed she bore no personal responsibility, blaming accounting errors by a tax agent she had authorized to handle her finances. Still, public outrage grew, with many accusing her of making excuses and failing to properly oversee her own finances.
Although Song Hye-kyo quickly paid the outstanding taxes, the backlash was severe. Under intense pressure, she held a press conference, bowing deeply and apologizing to the nation, promising never to repeat the offense.
A Lasting Stain on Her Image
The incident remains the most damaging controversy of Song Hye-kyo’s career. She faced boycotts, and petitions circulated demanding her removal from the entertainment industry. It took years for her to begin rebuilding her image, with the turning point coming in 2016 through the massive success of Descendants of the Sun.
However, the public has not forgotten. Whenever another tax scandal breaks in Korean entertainment, Song Hye-kyo’s name resurfaces. Even her displays of wealth such as purchasing a 9 billion KRW luxury villa have reignited criticism, with netizens mocking her past evasion while noting her lavish lifestyle.
Despite the enduring stain on her public image, Song Hye-kyo remains one of Korea’s most recognized actresses, her career a complex mix of acclaim, resilience, and controversy.
Sources: K14
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