Actress Hwang Jung-eum has fully repaid ₩4.34 billion KRW (approximately $3.19 million USD) tied to allegations of embezzlement, her agency Y.ONE Entertainment confirmed Tuesday, amid ongoing legal proceedings.

The repayment was made in two installments on May 30 and June 5 by liquidating the actress's personal assets, according to a formal statement from the agency.

The funds were originally withdrawn from Hoonminjeongeum Entertainment, a one-person corporation owned and operated by Hwang.

"It is true that Ms. Hwang has repaid the entire amount she used from Hoonminjeongeum Entertainment in the form of temporary advances," the agency said.

"All financial matters between Hoonminjeongeum Entertainment and Ms. Hwang Jung-eum have been completely resolved."

The case gained attention after Hwang was indicted without detention on charges of embezzling funds between 2020 and 2022.

Among the disputed expenses was a ₩700 million KRW withdrawal reportedly used for personal cryptocurrency investments.

The agency attributed the controversy to Hwang's lack of business training, rather than malicious intent.

"As the owner of a one-person corporation and not a professional manager, Ms. Hwang lacked sufficient financial knowledge, which led to this controversy," Y.ONE Entertainment stated. "She deeply regrets the situation and is actively cooperating with all legal and ethical procedures."

In the same statement, the agency issued a formal apology to the public.
"We sincerely apologize for the concern this has caused," it read.

"Moving forward, Ms. Hwang will act with greater caution and responsibility, consulting professionals even in minor matters, in an effort to restore public trust."

The actress's legal case remains open, but her full repayment is viewed as a significant step toward resolution.

Prosecutors have not yet commented on whether the repayment will influence the outcome of the criminal proceedings.

Hwang Jung-eum, best known for her roles in dramas such as She Was Pretty and Kill Me, Heal Me, also made headlines earlier this year following the finalization of her divorce after nine years of marriage.

Her agency concluded by reaffirming her commitment to transparency and accountability moving forward.

"She deeply reflects on the matter and is sincerely fulfilling all necessary legal and moral obligations to bring this case to a prompt resolution," Y.ONE said.