Former “T-ARA” Member Areum Faces 4.2 Millon Fraud Allegations and Child Abuse Conviction

The appeal was submitted through her legal representative by Lee Areum (30), a former member of the girl group ‘T-ARA.’ On January 16, Areum was sentenced to eight months in prison, with a two-year probation and a requirement to attend 40 hours of child abuse prevention lectures, at the Suwon District Court’s Ansan Branch, on charges of child abuse and defamation.

“Areum was reported to have been sued by her ex-husband, Mr. A, an entrepreneur, who married her in October 2019 and is currently in the midst of a divorce lawsuit in December 2023. During their marriage, Areum harshly criticized Mr. A on social media, claiming that he abused their two children, such as throwing them onto a bed (posts which have since been deleted). Areum is suing Mr. A.

However, the situation reversed in February of last year. Mr. A, who had been acquitted of the abuse charges, turned around and sued Areum for child abuse. After consulting with experts, the police prohibited Areum from having contact with her children. The prosecution argued that there were several inconsistencies in Areum’s testimony. The court found Areum guilty of emotional abuse, including verbally attacking Mr. A in front of the children, and sentenced her accordingly,” said a reporter from a South Korean newspaper.

“Had money taken through hacking”

As previously mentioned, Areum filed an appeal against the verdict. However, the trouble doesn’t end with the child abuse allegations. Areum has been involved in a series of scandals.

“After separating from Mr. A, Areum remarried a general man, Mr. B. The two were indicted in August of last year. Areum and Mr. B allegedly borrowed approximately 4.2 million yen from three fans and acquaintances, citing personal reasons, but failed to repay the money. The victims filed a lawsuit against Areum and Mr. B for suspected fraud. Areum explained that ‘the money was taken through hacking.’

There are other troubles that Areum has caused. She was sued for defamation after insulting a man who criticized Mr. B during a live internet broadcast. The court condemned her, stating that she made unreasonable statements without making an effort to confirm the facts. Areum was found guilty and sentenced accordingly,” the report continued.

As a member of one of South Korea’s top girl groups, Areum, who is also popular in Japan, risks tarnishing her glamorous career as a famous artist. If these scandals continue, she could severely betray the trust of her fans.