A burgeoning scandal engulfs the South Korean entertainment and tech industries as several well-known figures and YouTubers face allegations linked to the cryptocurrency sector. Notably, accusations of deception have surfaced against Winnerz, a blockchain sports platform accused of fabricating cryptocurrency and ensnaring investments without allowing withdrawals.
The controversy intensified following claims that Winnerz leveraged celebrity endorsements to bolster its cryptocurrency’s credibility, leading to a mixed response from the involved personalities. Prominent comedian Na Sun-uk and the creators of the famed YouTube channel Shortbox, Kim Won-hoon, and Cho Jin-se, have publicly refuted any financial ties with the embattled platform. In contrast, other celebrities have acknowledged their investments in Winnerz amidst growing scrutiny over its legitimacy.
Police Investigation Triggered
According to local reports, an anonymous online disclosure prompted the National Police Agency’s investigation into Winnerz for potential fraud, highlighting a sophisticated scheme purportedly endorsed by celebrities to recruit investors. This revelation comes amid broader concerns over digital investment scams in South Korea.
In response to the escalating allegations, Winnerz defended its operational transparency and achievements, asserting its compliance with international exchange listings and its stated objectives. Despite these claims, the controversy overshadows Winnerz’s reputation and its associations within the entertainment industry.