Actor Cho Jin-woong Addresses Past Crimes, Denies Sexual Assault Allegations

Actor Cho Jin-woong has admitted to committing serious crimes during his youth but has denied any involvement in sexual assault.

On the 5th, Cho Jin-woong's agency, SARAM Entertainment, stated, "After confirming with the actor, we acknowledge that there were wrongful actions during his minor years. However, these are based on partially verified facts, and it is challenging to fully understand the circumstances over 30 years later, especially since the related legal procedures have already concluded." They emphasized, "We clearly state that he is not involved in any sexual assault-related actions."

The agency continued, "The actor deeply regrets and reflects on the moments of poor judgment that caused concern even after becoming an adult. We sincerely apologize to everyone who suffered and was hurt by the actor's past mistakes. We also apologize to those who supported Cho Jin-woong for any disappointment caused."

Regarding Cho Jin-woong's use of his father's name professionally, the agency explained, "This was not to hide his past but was a sincere decision made by the actor to become a better person. We kindly ask for your understanding."

Earlier that day, a media outlet reported that Cho Jin-woong was involved in serious crimes during his high school years, receiving juvenile protection and being sent to a juvenile detention center. Informants claimed that he was a school bully involved in car theft and sexual violence incidents, spending a significant portion of his third year in correctional facilities.

The outlet also reported that Cho Jin-woong received a fine for assaulting a theater troupe member during a drinking session in 2003, questioning whether his use of his father's name was related to his past record.

Cho Jin-woong is currently filming the sequel to the drama 'Signal,' titled 'The Second Signal.'

Official Statement from Cho Jin-woong's Agency, SARAM Entertainment

Hello, this is SARAM Entertainment.

We sincerely apologize for the delay in addressing the reports concerning actor Cho Jin-woong and would like to present our official stance.

After confirming with the actor, we acknowledge that there were wrongful actions during his minor years. However, these are based on partially verified facts, and it is challenging to fully understand the circumstances over 30 years later, especially since the related legal procedures have already concluded. We clearly state that he is not involved in any sexual assault-related actions.

The actor deeply regrets and reflects on the moments of poor judgment that caused concern even after becoming an adult. We sincerely apologize to everyone who suffered and was hurt by the actor's past mistakes. We also apologize to those who supported Cho Jin-woong for any disappointment caused.

Regarding Cho Jin-woong's use of his father's name professionally, this was not to hide his past but was a sincere decision made by the actor to become a better person. We kindly ask for your understanding.

Once again, we apologize for any concern caused.

Choi Ji-ye, TENASIA Reporter wisdomart@tenasia.co.kr