Master Rick Lee’s World Taekwondo Gym Facing Multiple IRS, DOL, and ICE Investigations

Houston, TX (AP) – As of July 1, 2024, the AP reports that Master Rick Lee’s World Taekwondo, located at 1466 Wilcrest in the Memorial area, is under investigation by several federal agencies, including the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the Department of Labor (DOL), and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The allegations include tax fraud, tax evasion, immigration fraud, and human trafficking.

Reports show that Mr. Lee has been funneling business funds to his personal account, using money that should have been paid to employees to fund lavish trips to Japan and New York.

Additionally, Mr. Lee has been known to employ at least one immigrant who is not authorized to work in the United States, paying her cash only and rarely on time or in full.

When the employee approached Mr. Lee to inquire about her missing salary, he told her that he did not have money to pay her at the time and that any further inquests would result in him removing himself as her visa sponsor, which, according to him, could get her deported.

The victim in this case, Busra Gamze Sabanci, a professional taekwondo fighter from Istanbul, is more than meets the eye. The fighter, known for her integrity and kindness, is also under investigation by the USCIS, but for marriage fraud. Sabanci allegedly manipulated a young Houston man into marrying her so that she could obtain a green card, but reportedly became distant, cold, manipulative, and cruel after the marriage was made official. Her spouse has since filed for divorce.

This case will be updated as it continues to unfold.

Most Recent Update: 11:21 PM CST 07/01/2024