Earlier this year, in January, the former T-ARA (티아라) member Areum (이아름) made headlines after being handed a suspended sentence for child abuse and defamation, an incident that shocked many fans and the public alike. The case painted a troubling picture of her personal life, already under scrutiny due to previous controversies.
Months later, the 30-year-old has once again found herself facing legal repercussions. On 15th April 2025 (Tuesday), Judge Lee Nuri of the Ansan Branch of the Suwon District Court sentenced the former idol to six months in prison, suspended for two years, on charges of fraud.
According to reports, Areum was borrowing money from fans between March and May 2023, claiming it was needed for personal matters. She later failed to repay the loans, prompting the victims to take legal action. The celeb mentioned multiple reasons to justify the loans, such as relationship difficulties and personal struggles, yet the funds were never returned. The total amount defrauded is said to be approximately KRW 37 million (around RM114,380).
The former idol initially denied any wrongdoing, claiming her accounts had been hacked and placing the blame on her ex-boyfriend. However, as the police investigation progressed, she eventually confessed to having acted alone. Netizens have been quick to criticise the former idol for her inconsistent statements and eventual admission, with many expressing disappointment over her continued involvement in legal controversies.
Ahreum joined the girl group T-ARA in 2012 but departed the group the following year in 2013. She married a businessman in 2019 and had two sons before divorcing in 2023. After a messy divorce lawsuit, she later remarried her boyfriend and gave birth to a third child in November 2023. It has now been reported that the public figure is expecting her fourth child.
Fans who once supported her expressed hurt and disappointment over the idol’s recurring scandals. What are your thoughts on the situation?
Source: Allkpop
Nakhla Sabrina contributed to this article
