On May 8, 2025, VARO Entertainment, the agency representing actor Byeon Woo Seok from Lovely Runner, issued a stern warning regarding a troubling scam targeting small businesses. The agency revealed that fraudsters have been impersonating their staff, claiming to be managers for Byeon Woo Seok and other artists, in an attempt to deceive business owners.
According to the agency, these scammers have been reaching out to small businesses, particularly vendors, under the guise of arranging corporate events. They request advance payments for items, primarily wine, allegedly needed for company dinners or similar gatherings. After receiving the goods or payments, the scammers cut off all communication, leaving the victims with financial losses and no means of recovering their funds.
VARO Entertainment swiftly responded to the situation, emphasizing that neither their staff nor official representatives would ever ask for money transfers or product purchases. They strongly urged the public to exercise caution when approached by anyone claiming to be affiliated with the agency.
In an official statement, the agency confirmed that they were fully aware of the gravity of the situation and were taking legal action against the perpetrators. They reiterated their commitment to protecting their artists and business partners from such fraudulent schemes.
The statement further clarified, “These individuals are impersonating our artists’ managers and contacting small business owners under the pretext of organizing company events. They request payments for items like wine, but once the goods are delivered or funds are transferred, they disappear. This scam, commonly referred to as a ‘no-show’ fraud, leaves the victims at a significant financial loss.”
VARO Entertainment emphasized that any requests for money transfers or purchases made in the name of the agency or its artists should be treated as fraudulent and reported immediately. The agency has vowed to continue its efforts to ensure that both artists and vendors are protected from such deceptive activities.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of remaining vigilant against scams, particularly when high-profile figures like Byeon Woo Seok are involved. VARO Entertainment assured the public that they would continue to take all necessary steps to address the issue and safeguard the interests of all parties involved.
