Credit: Media Lab Siso, Lotte Entertainment
Kakao Entertainment is under investigation for allegedly acquiring drama production company Baram Pictures for more than its fair market value. The prosecution recently questioned director Jang Hang Jun as part of their probe.
Jang Hang Jun ‘s representatives confirmed he was questioned but emphasized it was a simple inquiry, not a full investigation. They spoke to OSEN yesterday, requesting to avoid speculation and misunderstandings. The investigation stems from suspicions that Kakao spent more than Baram Pictures’ worth when they acquired the company in 2020. The reported purchase price was 20 billion won.
It’s worth noting that Jang Hang Jun and his wife, writer Kim Eun Hee, were involved with Baram Pictures from 2017 to 2019. They served as internal directors, and Kim Eun Hee was even a shareholder in the early days, having also signed a drama script contract.
However, reports indicate Jang Hang Jun’s questioning was solely as a witness in the case.
Meanwhile, online speculation has arisen suggesting the questioning might be retaliation for Jang Hang Jun’s attendance at a press conference held by actor Lee Sun Kyun. The conference called for the truth to be revealed about Lee Sun Kyun’s death.
One netizen questioned, “Is this payback for the Lee Sun Kyun press conference?” referring to the event held by cultural and artistic organizations demanding a transparent investigation into actor Lee Sun Kyun ‘s death. Director Jang Hang Jun, along with Bong Joon Ho , Yoon Jong Shin , and Kim Eui Sung , attended the conference and called for a thorough examination of the legality surrounding Lee Sun Kyun’s drug investigation, transparency in information disclosure, and a review of current human rights protections.
Bong Joon Ho Among Cultural Leaders Seek Truth in Lee Sun Kyun Investigation
Another netizen expressed concern about targeted investigations, saying, “If they went after Jang Hang Jun, Yoon Jong Shin could be next.”
We’ve included the netizen reactions below for your reference:
“Director Jang Hang Jun questioned… Questions raised about Kakao’s purchase of his drama production company. Is this payback for the Lee Sun Kyun press conference?”
장항준 감독 조사… 카카오 제작사 고가인수 의혹 이선균 죽음 진산규명해달라는 기자회견이 이렇게 돌아오는 건가? https://t.co/cy0gDw9h9v — Sabina (@Sabina_kuk) March 7, 2024
