Few expected to see Kim Seon Ho in such a state. The actor has reemerged for the first time since being swept into a major tax evasion controversy that has shaken public opinion across Asia for over a week. On the evening of February 9, Sports Chosun reported that Kim was spotted amid the storm surrounding one of the most serious crises of his career.
According to reports, the production team of the stage play Interval released rare behind-the-scenes photos from rehearsals featuring Kim Seon Ho. In the images, the 1986-born actor appears visibly thinner and more worn down than before. His expression looks subdued and weary, a stark contrast to the bright smile and cheerful image that once defined him prior to the scandal. Many viewers interpreted his appearance as a sign that the controversy has taken a significant toll on his mental and emotional state. Despite the situation, all performances of Interval featuring Kim Seon Ho have reportedly sold out, with the play scheduled to premiere on February 13.
The actor became the center of heated debate after Korean media accused him of tax evasion. He was alleged to have used a shell company to divert personal income into a corporate structure in order to reduce personal income tax obligations, a method previously associated with other celebrity cases.
Amid mounting legal accusations, Kim Seon Ho issued an official statement through his agency Fantagio on the morning of February 4. In his apology, he admitted to a lack of understanding regarding the establishment and operation of a one-person corporation, acknowledging financial missteps as a result. Fantagio stated that Kim had paid the additional taxes owed. Many interpreted the statement as an implicit admission that he had engaged in tax avoidance or evasion through a family-run company.
As of now, tax authorities have not announced an official investigation or formal charges. However, legal experts warn that if the allegations particularly those involving the use of a shell company and unregistered business activities are proven true, Kim Seon Ho could face not only severe damage to his career but also possible prison time. Attorney Roh Jong Eon of Jonjae Law Firm noted that failing to register the legally required category of “popular culture and arts management business,” while still receiving management-related income, could constitute a violation of the Popular Culture and Arts Industry Development Act, carrying a potential sentence of up to two years in prison.
Meanwhile, the fallout has already begun to affect Kim’s commercial partnerships. From the evening of February 3, brand BEANPOLE reportedly deleted or hid advertisements featuring the actor. The swift move by a long-term partner signals growing unease and declining trust among brands previously closely associated with Kim Seon Ho, further underscoring the gravity of the situation as public scrutiny continues.
Sources: Naver
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