According to an exclusive report by JTBC on October 21, the victim, identified as Ms. A, was contacted by individuals claiming to be Lee Jung Jae. The scammers introduced themselves through social media, saying they wanted to “communicate with fans.”
The fraudsters went to extreme lengths to appear convincing — using AI technology to create fake airport selfies of Lee Jung Jae, claiming he was “filming Squid Game 3.” They even fabricated a counterfeit ID card to further the deception.
Believing she was truly communicating with the award-winning actor, Ms. A said, “He told me he would repay me once he returned to Korea. I believed him.”
The scam escalated when the fake Lee Jung Jae claimed he needed 10 million KRW to issue a “VIP fan meeting card.” Later, he told Ms. A that he had been detained at a U.S. airport, prompting her to transfer several more tens of millions of won.
At one point, another accomplice — posing as “management” — joined the conversation. This individual told Ms. A that they could arrange a personal meeting with Lee Jung Jae in exchange for 6 million KRW.
The scammers further manipulated Ms. A emotionally, calling her affectionate nicknames like “honey” and “sweetheart.” Over the course of six months, she transferred a total of 500 million KRW to the group.
The Gyeongnam Provincial Police Agency confirmed it is currently investigating the case, exploring possible ties to Cambodian-based scam organizations known for operating similar romance frauds. The Miryang Police Station, which began the investigation, reported that even after the case was opened, the scammer continued messaging Ms. A, saying, “Please trust me,” adding to the outrage.
The term “romance scam” combines “romance” and “scam” — referring to a type of fraud where perpetrators feign romantic interest to emotionally manipulate victims into sending money.
Recently, multiple Cambodia-based cyber fraud networks involved in romance scams have been uncovered and prosecuted, with several members facing prison sentences. The growing number of celebrity impersonation scams has alarmed the public, prompting warnings from law enforcement and online safety experts.
Actor Lee Jung Jae, who debuted in 1993 with the SBS drama Dinosaur Teacher, has no connection to the incident. He has been in a long-term relationship with Lim Se Ryung, vice chairwoman of the Daesang Group, for ten years.
As authorities continue their investigation, the case serves as a stark reminder of the rising sophistication of AI-driven scams — and how even digital affection can lead to devastating financial and emotional consequences.
Sources: Daum
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