Park Yoo-chun. [Newsis]
Park Yoo-chun. [Newsis]

Singer and actor Park Yoo-chun, 40, who faced charges of methamphetamine use, has resolved his legal dispute with his former agency and plans to pay off 400 million won ($260,000) in outstanding taxes by the end of this year.

According to Japanese media outlets including Sponichi Annex on Monday, Park's Japanese agency issued an official statement saying all prolonged litigation in South Korea had been successfully concluded. "We wish to inform you that the legal dispute with the former agency has been settled," the statement said.

Park had previously been sued by his former agency for 500 million won in damages over alleged violations of his exclusive contract.

The agency also addressed his outstanding tax debt. Park was listed among high-value habitual tax delinquents published by South Korea's National Tax Service in 2023, with the unpaid amount standing at around 400 million won.

Regarding the tax issue, the agency said it had already submitted an installment payment plan to the National Tax Service and that Park had been faithfully meeting his payment obligations in accordance with an agreement with the authorities. "Full payment of all taxes is expected to be completed by the end of this year," it added.

Park's team plans to build a new management structure centered on TGLAB Co. and continue local operations in Japan in partnership with his official fan club, Yuniverse.

Park issued a personal statement through his agency. "I sincerely apologize for causing so much concern and trouble over the long years of trials and tax issues in Korea," he said. "I am reflecting on my past mistakes and striving to live each day I have been given with care."

He also addressed his fans directly, saying, "I am grateful to those who believed in me and waited until I could emerge from the dark tunnel. I will carry that gratitude in my heart and overcome whatever difficulties lie ahead."

After stepping back from domestic activities amid multiple controversies, Park shifted his base to Japan, where he has continued to pursue an entertainment career focused on local broadcast appearances, including a recent stint on the Tokyo Metropolitan Television (TOKYO MX) variety program "70-goshitsu no Kyojusha."


123@heraldcorp.com