Actor Cho Jin-woong Announces Retirement Amid Past Criminal Allegations

Korean actor Cho Jin-woong (49, real name Cho Won-jun) has announced his retirement following the acknowledgment of his juvenile criminal record.

On the 6th, Cho Jin-woong stated, "First, I sincerely apologize for disappointing everyone who believed in and supported me due to my past misconduct. I humbly accept all criticism and have decided to cease all activities and end my acting career as of today. I believe this is the rightful responsibility and duty I must bear for my past mistakes."

He continued, "I will do my utmost to reflect and stand upright as a human being. Once again, I sincerely apologize. I am grateful to everyone I love and respect."

A media outlet reported on the 5th that Cho Jin-woong was involved in serious crimes during his high school years, resulting in juvenile protection measures and being sent to a juvenile detention center. Informants claimed that Jo was involved in car theft and sexual assault incidents as a school bully and spent a significant portion of his third year in a correctional facility.

The outlet also reported that Jo received a fine for assaulting a theater troupe member during a drinking session in 2003, raising questions about whether his use of his father's name instead of his real name was related to his past record.

In response, Cho Jin-woong's agency, Saram Entertainment, stated, "After confirming with the actor, it was acknowledged that there were wrongdoings during his minor years. However, this is based on partially verified facts, and it is challenging to fully understand the circumstances over 30 years later, with related legal procedures already concluded." They clarified, "We firmly state that he was not involved in any sexual assault-related acts."

The agency added, "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 harm and distress due to the actor's past mistakes. We also apologize for disappointing those who supported Cho Jin-woong."

Full Statement from Cho Jin-woong

Hello, this is actor Cho Jin-woong.
First, I sincerely apologize for disappointing everyone who believed in and supported me due to my past misconduct.

I humbly accept all criticism and have decided to cease all activities and end my acting career as of today.
I believe this is the rightful responsibility and duty I must bear for my past mistakes.

I will do my utmost to reflect and stand upright as a human being.

Once again, I sincerely apologize.
I am grateful to everyone I love and respect.

I am sorry.

Sincerely,
Cho Jin-woong


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