Former Sugar member Hwang Jung-eum is charged with embezzling 4.3 billion won in company funds, facing a possible 3-year sentence.

On the 21st, Jeju District Prosecutors requested a 3-year sentence for Hwang, accused of violating economic crime laws, in Jeju District Court's Criminal Division 2.

Hwang allegedly embezzled 4.34 billion won, including 700 million won borrowed by Hunminjeongeum Entertainment, investing it as advance payments in cryptocurrency in early 2022.

Reports indicate 4.2 billion won went into cryptocurrency, with the rest used for taxes and various expenses.

Hwang owns 100% of the family-run agency where she is the only artist.

Hwang admitted the charges, repaying the advance payments by June 5 and submitting proof to the court.

Her defense seeks leniency, arguing she intended business growth, was unaware of procedures, and has repaid the full amount with no other victims.

Hwang's sentencing is set for 10 a.m. on the 25th of the next month.