Actress Lee Hanee has spoken out for the first time regarding allegations of 6 billion KRW (approximately $4.4 million) in tax evasion.
On August 19, Lee participated in a virtual roundtable interview with MyDaily ahead of the release of Netflix’s original series 'Aema' (written and directed by Lee Hae Young). During the session, she discussed the drama as well as the controversy surrounding her tax case.
'Aema' tells the story behind the rise of erotic cinema in 1980s Korea, highlighting both the glamorous spotlight and the harsh realities hidden behind it. Lee stars as Hee Ran, the nation’s top actress of the time who boldly fights against the dark forces of the industry, alongside rookie actress Joo Ae played by Bang Hyo Rin.
When asked about the tax controversy that emerged last year, Lee responded candidly: “Life is always full of unfair situations. Differences in interpretation often lead to disputes, and in this line of work, there are times when you simply have to accept certain things as inevitable. Above all, I deeply regret causing concern and surprise to so many people. Since a project is never mine alone, I was worried that my situation might negatively affect others.”
She continued: “Of course, there are aspects that feel unfair. But the case has not yet been fully concluded. Although I have already paid all the taxes, I have formally requested a review by a higher authority to determine whether the assessment was truly appropriate. Since the process is ongoing, it is difficult to go into specifics, but I am trying to remain calm and patient.”
Lee also revealed the toll the investigation has taken on her personal life: “This has been going on for nearly four years, starting from my first pregnancy and childbirth. Over time, I have become more composed. Treating it as an overwhelming crisis only harms your health, so I have decided to approach it more calmly.”
In September last year, Lee was reportedly ordered to pay 6 billion KRW (approximately $4.4 million) in additional taxes following an audit by the National Tax Service. At the time, her agency stated: “Lee Hanee has always fulfilled her tax obligations in good faith under the guidance of her tax representative. The additional assessment arose from a difference in interpretation between the tax authorities and her representative. She has paid the full amount, and the case has no relation to deliberate tax evasion.”
Earlier this March, her agency issued another clarification, explaining that during a five-year comprehensive tax investigation into corporate entertainers, the authorities determined that Lee’s entertainment income should have been taxed as personal income rather than corporate revenue, even though corporate taxes had already been paid.
The agency stressed that: “There were no findings of unreported income or false expense claims during the audit. The tax disposition has not yet been finalized. Lee intends to pursue legal procedures through a tax law firm to challenge the risk of double taxation and to seek a fair legal interpretation.”
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