A Tragic Closure and Unfair Legal Outcome
A well-known health trainer and broadcaster, Yang Chi-seung, recently shared his emotional experience of closing down a gym that was involved in a fraudulent operation. The fraud reportedly caused significant financial damage, with the total loss estimated at over 1 billion won. This closure has left many affected individuals, including members of the gym and other business owners, feeling betrayed and financially devastated.
The gym, which once thrived with its state-of-the-art equipment and dedicated community, now stands as a shadow of its former self. Only the machines remain, symbolizing the abrupt end of an era. During a visit to the gym, a YouTuber named Pyo Young-ho expressed deep sorrow, stating that the situation "hurts his heart." He pointed out that the gym had been officially taken over by the local government, with a notice stating that all unauthorized items left after a specific date would be discarded as waste. This administrative action further emphasized the severity of the situation for those who were victims of the fraud.
Yang Chi-seung recounted how he initially suffered a lease fraud amounting to 500 million won. Despite making multiple legal claims, the court ruled in favor of the other party, leaving him with no recourse. He explained that the contract itself had provisions requiring accurate notification about the rental period, but these were not followed. The judge’s decision left him feeling that the system was unjust, even for someone of his public stature.
Moreover, several other merchants were also affected by the same fraudulent practices. Many believed they were safe because the building was owned by the district office. When they were suddenly evicted, they felt misled. An official from the district office reportedly told them they were not obligated to inform them about the eviction, leading to widespread frustration among the tenants.
The total damage caused by the fraud is staggering. Yang Chi-seung mentioned that the deposit alone was around 500 million won, and additional losses from facility costs added up to at least 1 billion won. These figures represent years of hard work and savings, which were lost due to the deceitful actions of others.
In response to the crisis, Yang Chi-seung has taken responsibility for the refunds. So far, approximately 20 million won has been returned to members. He is actively working on collecting more by selling personal items and his car. Despite the difficult circumstances, he remains committed to ensuring that his members are compensated fairly.
The gym's closure is scheduled for July 25th. Those who have changed their phone numbers or haven't received a text message regarding the refund are encouraged to contact the gym directly. Yang Chi-seung expressed gratitude to everyone who supported him throughout the years, acknowledging the pain and challenges faced during this time.
This incident highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in business dealings. It serves as a reminder that even those in positions of influence can fall victim to fraud, emphasizing the need for vigilance and legal protection. As the story unfolds, it will be essential to monitor how the affected parties navigate the aftermath and seek justice for the losses incurred.