Ahreum, a former T-ara member, was sentenced to six months’ probation for fraud. The judge considered her current childcare responsibilities when issuing the sentence. The victim was an acquaintance and fan.
Investigators determined that Ahreum’s boyfriend, Seo Dong Hoon, was the mastermind behind the fraud. Ahreum was indicted without detention late last year, and this incident has tarnished her image in the entertainment industry.
(Image source: Naver)
Ahreum has garnered significant media attention since her divorce announcement and subsequent relationship revelation in late 2023.
During her divorce proceedings, Ahreum accused her ex-husband of infidelity, abuse, and creating a difficult living environment for her and their children.
In April 2024, Ahreum further accused her ex-husband, businessman Kim Young Geul, of child abuse. She presented photographs of injuries sustained by her during her marriage.
She detailed instances of physical abuse, spitting, and defecating on her children. The singer recorded her eldest son’s statement and posted it online, filing a complaint with the authorities.
Ahreum claimed to have sufficient evidence of Kim Young Geul’s child abuse. However, the investigation concluded that there wasn’t enough evidence to convict Kim Young Geul of child abuse.
(Image source: Naver)
The investigation’s findings turned the narrative, revealing that Ahreum had coached her son to give false testimony. The child’s statements were inconsistent, and the injuries didn’t align with Ahreum’s accusations.
In June 2024, Ahreum’s ex-husband filed a counter-suit, accusing her of child abuse, abandonment, kidnapping, and grooming. Around this time, Ahreum and her boyfriend, Seo Dong Hoon, were accused of owing 37 million won (approximately $27,000 USD) to fans and acquaintances without repayment.
In 2024, Ahreum faced further controversy. In March, she attempted suicide but was rescued. She made other shocking public statements and actions.
In April 2024, she confirmed her pregnancy with Seo Dong Hoon. However, the accusations of fraud damaged their relationship, leading to arguments and a breakup. Subsequently, Ahreum suffered a miscarriage, and Seo Dong Hoon accused her of fabricating the accusations against her ex-husband.
(Image source: Naver)
Following the breakdown of her relationships, Ahreum faced a public backlash in South Korea. Fans transitioned from empathy to disappointment in light of her false accusations.
Ahreum, born in 1994, debuted in 2012 as a member of the K-pop group T-ara, leaving after a year due to health concerns. After marrying businessman Kim Young Geul in 2019, she reduced her public appearances. In 2022, she and her ex-husband participated in a reality TV show about their married life.
Ahreum and her ex-husband have two sons. During the divorce, she repeatedly made accusations against her ex-husband.
