South Korean celebrities, including top YouTubers, a veteran of the 2002 World Cup, a race car driver, and a leading comedian, have found themselves at the center of a fast-developing crypto “scam” controversy. The focus of this uproar revolves around Winnerz, a South Korean blockchain-powered sports project, and its associated Winnerz (WNZ) coin.
South Korean Celebrities in Crypto Trouble: Who Is Implicated?
The list of stars embroiled in the media storm surrounding Winnerz includes:
- Soccer player Lee Chun-soo, a member of the South Korean 2002 World Cup squad
- Comedian Na Sun-uk, star of Comedy Royale and a prominent YouTuber
- Comedian-turned-race car driver Han Min-kwan
- YouTubers Kim Won-hoon and Cho Jin-se of the Sandbox channel
- YouTuber Oking
- Model and social media star Park Min-jung
While many of those listed deny involvement, anonymous investors allege Winnerz issued “fake” coins, rendering their investments inaccessible.
Firm Denies Wrongdoing
Winnerz refutes these claims, asserting that the alleged fake coins are unrelated to the company. The dispute prompted investors to file a complaint with the police, sparking a search for celebrities linked to Winnerz.
In a YouTube video, YouTuber Oking admitted his investment in Winnerz but declared his intention to withdraw. Winnerz countered, stating Oking’s investment was not publicized at his request.
YouTuber Suffers Backlash
Oking’s subscriber count plummeted after his involvement came to light, exacerbated by accusations of dishonesty. He admitted to receiving payments from Winnerz but denied a $75,000 payment.
South Korean Sports Star Denies Coin Involvement
Soccer star Lee Chun-soo distanced himself from both Winnerz and another alleged scam coin project, GDG. He clarified that although approached by GDG officials, he never agreed to collaborate.
Regulatory Scrutiny Looms
This controversy adds to recent regulatory concerns in South Korea, with authorities hinting at potential probes into crypto-related activities, including NFT concert ticket sales by K-pop star PSY.
The unfolding saga underscores the complexities and risks associated with celebrity endorsements in the crypto space, emphasizing the importance of due diligence and transparency.
