Top Entertainment Agency Under Fire for Withholding ₩12M KRW in Laundry Fees Despite Launching New Idol Group
A prominent entertainment agency is under intense scrutiny after allegedly failing to pay ₩12 million KRW (approximately $8,800 USD) in laundry fees over two years despite continuing operations and even debuting a new idol group just last week.
The case was brought to public attention through JTBC’s Crime Chief on June 20, revealing that Kim Sung-yoon, who runs a laundry business for idol stage costumes in Nonhyeon-dong, Gangnam, had been cleaning performance outfits for a 10-member boy group since their debut—but has yet to receive a single payment for his work, which includes 200 to 300 cleanings.
“I did it because of trust with their styling team,” Kim said. “If I refused, their stylists couldn’t do their job.” But despite promises and ongoing requests, payments were repeatedly delayed, and eventually, all communication ceased.
When Kim threatened legal action, the agency responded with a sudden ₩5 million KRW transfer—only to fall silent again. “They said they had no money, yet they were so confident,” Kim remarked. “Now they ask why I can’t wait a little longer.”
It appears Kim is not alone. The report revealed that styling teams, costume manufacturers, and alteration shops are also owed tens of millions of won, painting a picture of systemic financial neglect.
Public outrage deepened upon learning that the agency, run by Kim M – a first-generation mogul who helped launch many popular artists in the 1990s, had just debuted a new idol group, raising questions about its financial priorities and ethical practices.
Under growing media pressure, the agency attempted damage control by attributing the issue to a “bookkeeping error.” In a public statement, a representative said: “We will pay everything today,” and added, “We needed the funds to be available, and they are available today.”
The incident has sparked debate across the entertainment industry about fair treatment for behind-the-scenes workers and the accountability of management companies, especially in an industry known for its glamour but not always its fairness.
