Actor Jo Jin-woong's drama 'Signal 2' has been excluded from tvN's 2026 lineup following revelations about his juvenile criminal record, leading to his retirement from the entertainment industry.
On the 12th, tvN unveiled its 2026 drama lineup through its official YouTube channel. Notably absent was 'Signal 2', which was initially slated for release in the first half of the year. 'Signal 2' is the sequel to the 2016 hit 'Signal', specially planned to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the original series and tvN's 20th anniversary. Starring Jo Jin-woong, Lee Je-hoon, and Kim Hye-soo, the drama completed filming last August and was set to air in June. However, Jo Jin-woong, who plays the pivotal role of Lee Jae-han, became embroiled in a 'juvenile crime controversy', casting doubt on the drama's release.
Jo Jin-woong announced his retirement, stating, "I deeply apologize for disappointing those who have trusted and supported me due to my past misconduct. I humbly accept all criticism and will cease all activities, marking the end of my acting career."
In response, tvN issued a statement regarding the scheduling of 'Signal 2', saying, "To preserve the value of 'Signal', we will take the necessary time to find the best solution for the work and our viewers."
Meanwhile, the lineup includes ongoing dramas like 'I'll Give You the Universe' starring Bae In-hyuk and Roh Jeong-eui, and upcoming releases such as 'Siren' with Park Min-young, Wi Ha-joon, and Kim Jung-hyun, 'How to Become a Building Owner in Korea' featuring Ha Jung-woo and Lim Soo-jung, 'Secret Appreciation' with Shin Hye-sun and Gong Myung, 'Going to Work Tomorrow!' starring Seo In-guk and Park Ji-hyun, 'Chilling Romance' with Park Eun-bin and Yang Se-jong, 'Four Hands' featuring Song Kang, Lee Jun-young, and Jang Gyu-ri, 'Favorite Employee' with Kang Hoon and Kim Hye-jun, '100 Days of Lies' starring Kim Yoo-jung and Park Jin-young, 'My Guilty Human' with Im Si-wan and Seol In-ah, and 'Retired Agent + Management Team' featuring Cha Seung-won and Kim Do-hoon.
Lee Soo-min, TenAsia Reporter danbilee19@tenasia.co.kr