The second trial of comedian Park Na Rae’s two former managers, who are accused of attempting to extort a large sum of money from her, is set to open today, October 20.
The Seoul Western District Court’s Criminal Division 4 will hold the second hearing for the two former managers, surnamed Shin and Lee, who have been indicted on charges of joint extortion under the Act on the Punishment of Violent Acts, Sports Chosun reported.
Prosecutors allege the two pressured Park by threatening to disclose details of her private life and allegations about company fund usage, demanding roughly 250 million won — about 10 percent of the company’s 2024 revenue — under the guise of incentives. Investigators say the money was never actually paid, leaving the case at an attempted extortion charge.
At the first trial on September 29, Shin’s side denied the key extortion charges, arguing he had a legitimate claim to severance pay and had no intent to threaten or demand money in exchange for going to the press. He also denied demanding 500 million won or notifying her of contract termination. Lee’s side is expected to state its position on the charges at today’s hearing.
Shin additionally faces embezzlement and fraud charges for allegedly diverting about 44 million won in company funds and event appearance fees into a corporate account he controlled. His side claimed some transfers were made with Park’s consent or under a performance bonus agreement, and questioned the legality of evidence gathered during the investigation.
The dispute began when the former managers accused Park of workplace bullying, proxy prescriptions, and unpaid expenses, filing a complaint against her. Park then counter-sued for attempted extortion and embezzlement, escalating the conflict into a full legal battle. Park has suspended her broadcasting activities since December last year.
No official statement from Park’s side was available ahead of the second trial. Today’s hearing is expected to clarify both defendants’ stances as the case moves forward.
