Comedian Park Na-rae, 40, has paused all broadcast activities amid a flurry of allegations from former managers―claims that have stunned fans as detailed accounts of their departures and disputes continue to surface.
According to YouTuber Behind Master Lee Jin-ho, the ex-managers say tensions escalated last November while prepping for MBC’s “NaDoShinNa” (literal title). Despite repeatedly offering to pack needed items in advance, they claim Park brushed it off―only to allegedly order them, on the day of departure, to track down personal items like wine glasses, mats, and lighting. When they couldn’t find the items after searching her home, they say she publicly reprimanded them in front of staff.
Their statements also include accusations that Park demanded alcohol and snacks during downtime, and that an enraged outburst left a manager injured. Lee added that one account alleges a thrown glass shattered and cut a manager’s hand, sending them to the ER.
The former managers further contend their monthly workloads neared 400 hours yet weren’t properly reflected in payroll, claiming missed allowances and expense reimbursements left at least 50 million wonunpaid. They say that when Park left her agency, she urged them to operate with her “like a one-person label,” promising 5 million won a month plus 10% of company revenue―but that actual pay landed in the low 3 million won range and no contract was signed.
They have reportedly pursued legal action, citing workplace harassment, bodily injury, and unpaid operating expenses, and have even sought a provisional attachment of real estate assets.
What makes the controversy hit harder is Park’s long-standing image as someone who genuinely looks after people around her.
Park has kept close ties with fellow comedians she came up with―Jang Do-yeon, Yang Se-hyung, Yang Se-chan, and Shin Giru―and has spent nearly a decade alongside the original panel of "I Live Alone."
Comedian Mija has also shared that during a years-long battle with depression early in her career, Park checked in on her constantly, calling Park “the person who saved my life.” Those heartwarming stories now sharply contrast with the specific accusations being aired, adding to the public’s shock and confusion.
On December 8, Park announced on social media that she would halt activities “until everything is resolved.”
“I’m a comedian whose job is to bring laughter, and I can’t keep burdening shows and colleagues,” she wrote. “I finally met with my former manager yesterday and we cleared up our misunderstandings. I still believe this is all my fault, and I’m deeply reflecting,” she added, issuing an apology.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)