A South Korean dentist and social media influencer, Lee Su-jin, has faced a cascade of challenges in recent years, culminating in the closure of her practice and reported financial difficulties. The situation began with persistent stalking and death threats, leading to the clinic’s shutdown, and has since been complicated by allegations of unfair business practices related to patient refunds.
Dr. Lee first publicly reported experiencing stalking in April 2024. The stalker, a previously convicted individual, reportedly sent her death threat letters even after being sentenced to an additional 10 months in prison. The ongoing fear for her safety, and that of her family and employees, ultimately led to the decision to close her dental clinic. A text message sent to patients in May 2024 announced the closure, citing the “continuous stalking” as the reason.
However, the closure wasn’t without further controversy. Allegations of “eat and run” – a Korean term referring to businesses that take payment without providing services – surfaced as patients claimed they were not refunded for prepaid treatments. One patient, identified as Mr. A, stated he requested a refund after being informed that remaining treatments would be transferred to another dentist. He alleges that despite this request, he has not received his money and was subsequently blocked on social media when he attempted to protest.
Dr. Lee’s situation highlights the complex interplay between personal safety, professional life, and patient rights. The initial stalking incident underscores the serious issue of stalking and the lasting impact it can have on victims. The fact that the stalker continued to threaten Dr. Lee even while incarcerated demonstrates the challenges in ensuring the safety of those targeted by persistent harassment.
The subsequent allegations regarding refunds raise important questions about ethical business practices and consumer protection. While the details of these claims are still unfolding, they emphasize the importance of clear communication and fair treatment of patients, particularly during a business closure. The lack of a clear refund process can understandably lead to frustration and a sense of unfairness among those affected.
Born in 1969, Dr. Lee gained prominence after graduating from Seoul National University’s dental school and establishing a practice in the Gangnam district of Seoul. She expanded her reach through social media, becoming an influencer in the health and wellness space. Her public profile increased further in 2019 with an appearance on the KBS Joy program ‘Ask Me Anything’ alongside her daughter.
Recent reports, as of , indicate that Dr. Lee is facing significant financial hardship following the closure of her clinic. She has publicly lamented her financial ruin, suggesting a difficult path forward. This situation underscores the potential economic consequences of stalking and the challenges faced by business owners who are forced to close their doors due to safety concerns.
The case also draws attention to the broader issue of support for victims of stalking. While legal remedies exist, the emotional and financial toll on victims can be substantial. Access to resources such as counseling, security measures, and legal assistance is crucial for helping individuals cope with the aftermath of stalking and rebuild their lives.
the allegations surrounding patient refunds highlight the need for clear regulations and dispute resolution mechanisms in the healthcare industry. Patients should have a clear understanding of their rights and options when a healthcare provider closes their practice, and a streamlined process for obtaining refunds for unused services is essential.
It’s important to note that the situation is still developing, and further investigation may be needed to fully understand the circumstances surrounding the allegations of unfair business practices. However, the case of Dr. Lee Su-jin serves as a cautionary tale about the far-reaching consequences of stalking and the importance of protecting both victims and consumers.
In a separate development, Sujin Lee, the Co-founder and CEO of Yanolja Group, a global leader in hospitality technology, was involved in the relocation of Yanolja Cloud Solution’s headquarters to Surat, India, on . This Sujin Lee is a different individual than the dentist, and the move signifies Yanolja Cloud Solution’s expansion and commitment to innovation in the hospitality sector.
