JDB Entertainment has explained the reason behind its split with comedian Park Na Rae.
On January 15, JDB stated, “It is true that there were differences of opinion regarding the signing bonus during contract renewal discussions with Park Na Rae. Initially, she proposed a high signing fee, but after adjustments, we reached a relatively amicable agreement.” The agency added, “Ultimately, the key issue was not the signing bonus but differing views on future activities and direction. Since contract renewals typically involve a three-year commitment and the disagreements were significant, we decided not to renew.”
Earlier that day, a media outlet reported that Park Na Rae had demanded a substantial signing bonus during renewal talks with JDB in 2024. In the end, she parted ways with the agency and began working under a one-person management company, N Park. It was also rumored that during discussions with several other agencies, she sought a signing fee of approximately 30 billion KRW (approx. 20.4 million USD).
Meanwhile, former manager 'A' made explosive claims on January 12, stating, “Park Na Rae personally recruited me from JDB, knowing that I was capable of handling multiple roles—on-site manager, team leader, head manager, and even director. I followed her after leaving JDB and handled all related tasks for a year, and she was satisfied with my work.” 'A' further alleged, “At the time, Park Na Rae asked me to ‘obtain recordings’ to gain leverage over JDB CEO Park [surname withheld]. I sent those recordings to Park Na Rae and her boyfriend, and I still have them in my possession.”
JDB Entertainment was founded by comedians Kim Dae Hee and Kim Jun Ho. Park Na Rae’s absence from Kim Jun Ho and Kim Ji Min’s wedding last July has also resurfaced amid the controversy. Park Na Rae is known to be close friends with Kim Ji Min. At the time, her side cited “personal reasons” for her absence, explaining the situation to the couple and reportedly sending a congratulatory gift instead.
Park Na Rae is also facing allegations of workplace harassment against former managers, as well as claims that she received illegal medical treatment from an individual known as “Injection Aunt.” Two former managers have accused her of workplace bullying, proxy prescriptions, and unpaid production expenses. On January 3, they filed for a provisional seizure of real estate worth approximately 1 billion KRW (approx. 680,657 USD) at the Seoul Western District Court.
On January 5, they additionally filed criminal complaints at the Gangnam Police Station, accusing Park Na Rae of aggravated injury, defamation through false information, and violations of the Act on Promotion of Information and Communications Network Utilization and Information Protection. In response, Park Na Rae countersued on January 6 at the Yongsan Police Station on charges of blackmail and filed an additional complaint for embezzlement on January 20.
Amid the mounting controversies, Park Na Rae has suspended all activities and stepped down from programs including MBC’s 'I Live Alone' and tvN’s 'Amazing Saturday.' On January 16, she released a brief statement saying, “I take seriously the concern and fatigue this situation has caused many people. There are facts that need to be calmly verified, which is why legal procedures are currently underway.” She added, “I will refrain from making further statements or explanations. This decision is not about blaming anyone or assigning responsibility, but about excluding emotion and personal judgment and allowing the matter to be resolved through proper procedures.”
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