Hwang Jung-eum, who gained fame as a member of the musical group Sugar, stands accused of misappropriating about 4.3 billion won from company funds. Prosecutors have recommended a 3-year imprisonment for her actions.

As reported within legal circles on the 21st, the request for a 3-year sentence was made by the Jeju District Prosecutors' Office during the concluding trial. This trial, concerning breaches of the Act on the Aggravated Punishment of Specific Economic Crimes (embezzlement), was overseen by Judge Lim Jae-nam at the Jeju District Court's Criminal Division 2.

Hwang is alleged to have siphoned off approximately 4.34 billion won from company resources. This includes around 700 million won from funds advanced by Hunminjeongeum Entertainment, which she allegedly funneled into cryptocurrency ventures in early 2022, under the pretense of advance payments.

It is understood that of the embezzled sum, Hwang allocated roughly 4.2 billion won to cryptocurrency investments. The balance was reportedly used for covering property and local tax liabilities, among other financial obligations.

The company involved is a family-operated business, entirely owned by Hwang, who is also its sole talent. This situation implies complete control over financial decisions within the agency.

Hwang has conceded to all accusations and has purportedly returned the misappropriated funds, initially taken as advance payments from Hunminjeongeum Entertainment, by June 5. The relevant documentation was presented to the Jeju District Court as proof of repayment.

Seeking a lighter sentence, Hwang's legal representatives argued, "The defendant intended to expand the company through her investments. She was unaware of accounting norms and procedural requirements, under the impression that repayment would suffice to rectify any wrongdoing. As there are no other affected parties and the full amount has been reimbursed, we request leniency."

Hwang's sentencing hearing is scheduled to occur at 10 a.m. on the 25th of the upcoming month.