ENTERTAINMENT
Actor Cho Jin-woong's Troubled Past Casts Shadow Over Upcoming tvN Drama 'The Second Signal'
Earlier today, a media outlet reported that Cho Jin-woong was involved in serious criminal activities during his high school years, leading to his detention in a juvenile facility. The report claims that he was involved in car theft and implicated in a sexual assault case.
According to the source, Cho Jin-woong and his group committed various crimes, including driving without a license and using stolen goods. It was also reported that he faced criminal charges for robbery and rape under the Special Act in 1994, resulting in his detention in a juvenile facility.
The media outlet stated that the allegations against Cho Jin-woong surfaced after the Liberation Day event on August 15. Cho Jin-woong had recited the national pledge at the 80th Liberation Day celebration. Previously, he gained attention for his involvement in events like the repatriation of General Hong Beom-do's remains and narrating 'Independence Army: The Unfinished War.' Some interpreted his pledge as reopening old wounds for some victims.
Further claims have emerged that Cho Jin-woong assaulted a theater troupe member as an adult, resulting in a fine, and that he has a history of drunk driving. His agency plans to release an official statement once the facts are verified.
With these allegations surfacing, the future of tvN's 'The Second Signal,' set to premiere in 2026, is uncertain. The drama, a sequel to the 2016 hit 'Signal,' stars Kim Hye-soo, Cho Jin-woong, and Lee Je-hoon. Filming reportedly began in February and concluded in August.
tvN had included 'The Second Signal' in its lineup for its 20th-anniversary celebration next year, highlighting it as a flagship production. The controversy surrounding Cho Jin-woong could significantly impact the production and broadcast schedule. With filming completed, the decision on whether to air his scenes remains to be seen.
Reported by Kim Se-ah, TENASIA haesmik@tenasia.co.kr
