According to a report on the 17th, 'Second Signal' (also known as 'Signal 2'), starring Jo Jin-woong, has been excluded from the summer lineup, including June. Instead, the time slot is expected to be filled by the first season of Apple TV+'s series 'Pachinko'.
tvN confirmed to TenAsia, "The scheduling of 'Pachinko' is confirmed, but the timing is undecided," adding, "The scheduling for 'Signal' is also undecided."
However, 'Signal 2' has not been completely canceled. tvN is carefully considering its scheduling options, with possibilities for a release later this year or by the end of the year. As a 20th-anniversary project, they are exploring various options to release it within the year.
'Signal 2' is the sequel to the highly popular 2016 series 'Signal', reuniting Kim Hye-soo, Lee Je-hoon, and Jo Jin-woong after 10 years. Written again by Kim Eun-hee, the series has completed filming, but Jo Jin-woong's past controversies have cast doubt on its release.
Last year, a report revealed that Jo Jin-woong had committed serious crimes as a high school student, resulting in juvenile detention. Allegations of assault during his early career, a DUI, and using his father's stage name to hide his past further fueled the controversy.
In response, Saram Entertainment acknowledged some of the facts, stating, "The actor confirmed some wrongdoings during his youth, but it's difficult to ascertain details from over 30 years ago, and legal procedures have concluded." They clarified that he was not involved in any sexual assault.
Jo Jin-woong apologized through his agency, stating, "I sincerely apologize for disappointing those who believed in and supported me due to my past misconduct. I humbly accept all criticism and have decided to end my career as an actor. I believe this is the responsibility I must bear for my past mistakes."
Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr