Actress Hwang Jung Eum, who is currently on probation following an embezzlement conviction involving company funds, has come under unexpected criticism after announcing a free toy giveaway.
On February 12, Hwang posted on her social media, “Giving away toys for free. Toys my child used carefully, please feel free to take them if you need them♥,” along with several photos. She stated that the giveaway would take place from February 13 to 15 in Itaewon, Yongsan District, Seoul, between 12 p.m. and 7 p.m. The released images showed a large assortment of toys including toy cars, robots, and dinosaur figures piled together. The items, believed to have been used by her two sons, were laid out in bulk on the floor, drawing attention.
However, some netizens reacted coldly. Critical comments such as “Pay to dispose of your waste properly,” “If it is a giveaway, should you not at least sort them?” and “It looks like you are trying to save on trash bag fees” began circulating online. Hwang Jung Eum was previously indicted on charges of embezzling 4.3 billion KRW (approximately 3.2 million USD), from her personal corporation.
She was sentenced to two years in prison, suspended for four years. After admitting to all charges, she fully repaid the misappropriated funds in two installments in May and June of last year. As a result, the recent toy giveaway announcement has been interpreted by some through a critical lens, with lingering public scrutiny surrounding her past legal issues.
Meanwhile, Hwang Jung Eum recently completed the registration of her one-person agency, Hunminjeongeum Entertainment, as a popular culture and arts planning business. According to the Public Culture and Arts Integrated Information System, she finalized the registration process on January 23.
The corporation, established in 2013, lists Hwang Jung Eum as CEO and her mother as an internal director. The company had previously drawn controversy after it was revealed that it had been operating without proper registration. In response, Hwang’s side explained, “We received management-related services from our former agency and believed separate registration was not necessary. We have been undergoing the registration process since last November.”
Hwang Jung Eum finalized her divorce in May of last year and is currently raising her two sons on her own. Industry observers are now watching closely to see whether the completion of her agency registration signals the beginning of her return to activities.
SEE ALSO: Hwang Jung Eum's 'Trash Giveaway' backlash turns around as attendees share firsthand account
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