Former Big Bang member Seungri admits to illegal gambling but denies illegal foreign exchange charges

KUALA LUMPUR — Former member of K-pop boyband Big Bang, Seungri, has admitted to gambling charges during questioning by police.

He has however, denied being involved in illegal foreign exchange transactions, according to Korean pop culture site Allkpop.

He was released late on Wednesday (Aug 28) night after more than 12 hours of interrogation at the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency.

Seungri, 28, was previously investigated over alleged misdeeds, including the procurement of prostitutes for would-be investors and the embezzlement of funds from the Burning Sun nightclub.

The latest round of investigations revolve around his alleged habitual overseas gambling at luxurious casinos in Las Vegas, involving illicit foreign exchange transactions.

Investigations into the scandals surrounding Seungri, whose real name is Lee Seung-hyun, has led to numerous allegations against other musicians and personnel at his former agency, YG Entertainment.

Yang Hyun-suk, the agency’s founder and former chief producer, was also questioned by police over similar illicit gambling and cash transfer allegations.

South Korean authorities have reportedly asked for help from the Federal Bureau of Investigation in the US to gather evidence. MALAY MAIL