Lee Seung-gi, a multi-talented singer and actor, and his former agency, Hook Entertainment, are currently entangled in a contentious dispute concerning settlement fees. This article delves into the ongoing legal case, shedding light on the claims made by both parties and the intricacies of the conflict.
Lawsuit Inception – Lee Seung-gi and Hook Entertainment Clash in Court
The courtroom drama unfolds as the initial trial at Seoul Central District Court’s Civil Conciliation Division 20 (Presiding Judge Lee Se-ra) commences. Hook Entertainment asserts its right to receive 900 million won in advertising commissions from Lee Seung-gi.
Initially, Hook Entertainment filed the lawsuit to confirm the completion of their obligations after paying Lee Seung-gi a settlement fee of 5.4 billion won. However, they have since altered their stance, contending that they overpaid in advertising revenues and requesting a return of 900 million won.
In response, Lee Seung-gi’s representative argues for an additional 3 billion won. They highlight that despite a reduction in the advertising agency commission from 10% to 7%, Hook Entertainment surreptitiously continued to deduct 10% from earnings, resulting in an inflated settlement fee.
Origin of the Conflict – Lee Seung-gi’s Allegation of Unpaid Royalties
The conflict arises from Lee Seung-gi’s claim that he never received any royalties for his music during his 18-year tenure with Hook Entertainment. To substantiate his allegations, he provides the company with a letter of proof outlining the discrepancies.
Hook Entertainment rebuts Lee Seung-gi’s claims, stating that they reconciled the financial relationship during the termination and subsequent renewal of the exclusive contract in 2021. They present an agreement document supporting their assertion that they did pay music royalties, refuting Lee Seung-gi’s contentions.
Undeterred by the company’s response, Lee Seung-gi’s camp contends that the agreement document pertains to a real estate investment of 4.7 billion won concerning Hook Entertainment, not the settlement of music royalties. The legal confrontation persists as Lee Seung-gi insists on clarity regarding the calculations made by Hook Entertainment.
Lee Seung-gi’s Complaint of Economic Crimes
Adding another layer to the complex situation, Lee Seung-gi files a complaint with the prosecution, accusing Hook Entertainment’s CEO Kwon Jin-young and four other executives of economic crimes, including embezzlement and fraud.
As the legal battle rages on, the conflicting claims and evidence presented by Lee Seung-gi and Hook Entertainment remain at the forefront. The outcome of this ongoing dispute, which will be determined through the court proceedings, has the potential to unveil the intricate financial dynamics between the artist and his former agency. Stay tuned for further developments in this high-profile case.
Additionally CEO Kwon Jin-young is currently also embroilled in a case related to violation of the Narcotics Control Act for taking psychotropic drug Zolpidem after receiving an illegal prescription.
