Comedian Jo Se-ho has been caught in a controversy over alleged ties with organized crime, prompting his agency to issue an official statement denying the claims.
A2Z Entertainment, Jo's agency, responded on the 4th to the spreading rumors online, stating, "The claims circulating on social media are completely unfounded." They further clarified that the individual mentioned is "merely an acquaintance."
The controversy began when a social media user alleged that Jo Se-ho had a close relationship with a person identified as Mr. A, who is reportedly a key figure in a local organized crime group, and that they exchanged expensive gifts.
The user also suggested Jo's involvement with a person linked to franchise promotions and illegal money laundering, sharing photos of Jo with the individual, which fueled the controversy further. As these claims spread rapidly across online communities, Jo's agency reiterated that they are "groundless."
Jo Se-ho debuted as a comedian in 2001 through SBS's 6th open recruitment and is currently active on KBS 2TV's '2 Days & 1 Night Season 4' and Netflix's 'The Driver Season 3: The Driver Dismantling Show.' He is particularly noted for his appearances alongside Yoo Jae-suk on tvN's 'You Quiz on the Block.'
Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr