AfreecaTV BJ Stars Fall Victim to South Korean Crypto Scammers 🎬💰

AfreecaTV BJ Stars Have Become the Latest Targets of Sophisticated South Korean Crypto Scammers

South Korean Crypto Scammer Targets AfreecaTV Broadcaster

Tim Alper

Last updated: March 3, 2024 18:30 EST | 2 min read

AfreecaTV BJ Falls Victim to South Korean Crypto Scammers

AfreecaTV BJ stars have become the latest targets of increasingly sophisticated South Korean crypto scammers. According to Asia Kyungjae, a Seoul Central District Court sentenced a “man in his thirties” to five years in prison for crypto-related fraud. This incident sheds light on the dangers that can lurk within the cryptocurrency space, even for popular influencers like the BJ stars.

📺 An Unfortunate Stinging Event

AfreecaTV is South Korea’s leading real-time streaming platform, where the biggest BJ stars have become celebrities in their own right. However, scammers have recently tried to exploit the platform to lure BJ stars into participating in complex crypto fraud projects.

The court revealed that the fraudster stole both crypto and cash on “over 30 occasions” from a BJ star and an unnamed businessman. The scam started by the fraudster winning the trust of the victims through generous donations of BJ “star balloons” worth “tens of millions of KRW.” These star balloons are worth about $0.08 each and can be used by South Korean fans to support their favorite streamers on the platform.

With AfreecaTV’s star balloon project, fans can top-up their balloon balances offline and online to spend on the platform, even at convenience stores. Many leading AfreecaTV BJ stars heavily rely on these balloons as a major source of income, with fans donating during their livestreams.

Inside the AfreecaTV headquarters in Seongnam, South Korea.

💰 The Crypto Wallet Trickery

The fraudster, posing as a crypto investment expert, showed the BJ stars a Bitcoin wallet balance worth over 3.8 million. They promised the stars returns of two to four times their investment and even offered to cover any losses with their own money. Believing the scammer’s promises, one of the BJ stars sent them over $7,500, followed by another payment of $1.1 million in November 2021.

In January 2022, the fraudster cunningly showed the BJ screenshots “proving” that their investment had grown to nearly $21 million. To ease the star’s anxieties, the scammer claimed to own four houses in Seoul’s exclusive Gangnam District. However, suspicions arose when the fraudster only agreed to let the star access $75,000 of their funds.

In reality, the fraudster ran a near-bankrupt public relations company and had debts exceeding $52,600. Moreover, the court discovered that this individual had also been using a similar scheme to dupe a business acquaintance. As a result of the scam, the BJ star suffered damages equivalent to their entire assets.

🚨 Crypto Scams on the Rise

This latest incident involving AfreecaTV BJ stars is a clear warning sign about the increasing prevalence of crypto scams in South Korea. Just over a year ago, a leading domestic security provider issued a warning about the rise in South Korean crypto mining-related scams. According to a 2023 study, 71% of South Korean crypto scam victims were female, with the majority aged 39 and under.

Crypto scams have become a significant concern in the digital asset space. It’s important for individuals to remain cautious and conduct thorough research before getting involved in any crypto-related investments or projects. Always remember, if something seems too good to be true, it probably is.

📚 References:


Q&A: Answering Your Burning Questions on Crypto Scams 🔥🙋‍♂️

Q: How can I protect myself from falling victim to crypto scams? A: To protect yourself from crypto scams, it’s crucial to stay informed and educate yourself about the different types of scams. Be cautious of investment opportunities that promise exceptionally high returns with little to no risk. Always research and verify the legitimacy of any crypto project or investment before getting involved. Additionally, keep your personal information secure and be wary of unsolicited offers or requests for sensitive information.

Q: Are all crypto investments scams? A: No, not all crypto investments are scams. Cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology have undoubtedly revolutionized various industries and provided genuine investment opportunities. However, it’s essential to approach investments with caution and conduct thorough research. Look for projects with transparent teams, clear roadmaps, and a solid underlying technology. Seek advice from reputable sources and never invest more than you can afford to lose.

Q: What should I do if I suspect I’ve been scammed? A: If you suspect you’ve fallen victim to a crypto scam, it’s important to act quickly. Report the incident to your local authorities and provide them with any relevant information, such as communication records or transaction details. Additionally, inform your bank or any other financial institutions involved to take appropriate measures to protect your accounts. Remember, time is of the essence when dealing with scams, so don’t delay in seeking assistance.


From this incident, it’s evident that crypto scams continue to evolve, becoming increasingly sophisticated and targeting even prominent figures like the AfreecaTV BJ stars. Therefore, it is crucial to stay informed, exercise caution, and be skeptical of any investment opportunities in the crypto space.

While the technology behind cryptocurrencies holds significant potential, it’s essential to navigate the digital asset landscape with vigilance. By understanding the risks and conducting thorough research, individuals can ensure a safer and more secure experience in the world of crypto.

Now, it’s your turn. Have you ever encountered a crypto scam or know someone who has? Share your experiences and spread awareness to protect others in the comments below! And don’t forget to share this article with your friends and loved ones on social media to help them stay informed too. 👇💬💪

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial or investment advice.

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