Lee Seung-gi, Cha Ga-won Continue 'Truth Battle' Over 10.5 Billion Won Lease Deposit

A legal battle is unfolding between singer and actor Lee Seung-gi and Cha Ga-won, chairman of Piarak Group, concerning a 10.5 billion won lease deposit for a luxury villa.

Cha Ga-won's legal team, represented by attorney Hyun Dong-yeop, has vehemently denied accusations of a "jeonse" (lump-sum deposit) scam, which were raised by the MBC program 'PD Notebook'. Hyun Dong-yeop asserted that the situation is not a real estate fraud but rather a calculated move orchestrated to terminate Lee Seung-gi's exclusive contract with the agency.

Previously, Lee Seung-gi had alleged that after being persuaded by Chairman Cha Ga-won to move into a high-end villa in Hannam-dong, he was subsequently asked to pay a lease deposit exceeding 10.5 billion won, which was reportedly more than three times the market value.

In response, Cha Ga-won's side countered that Lee Seung-gi is confusing the initial deposit of 3 billion won with the market price. They also stated that Lee Seung-gi had expressed gratitude upon moving in and was aware of the appraisal process. Attorney Hyun Dong-yeop further indicated that additional revelations would be made, referencing forensic results from Cha Ga-won's mobile phone.