Actor Cho Jin-woong Retires Amid Controversy Over Past Crime and Media Ethics Debate

Actor Cho Jin-woong (49) has announced his retirement following revelations of a serious crime he committed as a teenager, which led to a protective disposition. The controversy has been further fueled by a lawyer filing a complaint against the media outlet that first reported the story, accusing them of violating juvenile law.

On December 7, lawyer Kim Kyung-ho of the law firm Hoin(법률사무소 호인) announced on his social media that he had formally filed a complaint with the National Newspaper against the media outlet and journalist who first reported Cho Jin-woong's juvenile record, citing a violation of Article 70 of the Juvenile Act, which mandates the confidentiality of juvenile cases.

Kim emphasized that the purpose of the Juvenile Act is to allow society to view a minor's mistakes as an opportunity for a fresh start, not as a means to conceal crimes. He criticized the media's actions as "violence disguised as journalism" for unsealing and publicizing sealed court documents. He questioned whether exposing a high school student's mistake from 30 years ago is truly necessary for the public's right to know.

He further argued that if the journalist obtained prohibited information through a public official or related party, it constitutes a criminal act that breaches legal boundaries, rather than mere reporting. Kim asserted that the core issue is not the past of a famous actor but the commercial curiosity that has infringed upon legal order.

Kim had previously criticized public opinion against Cho Jin-woong on December 6, questioning the public benefit of revealing the youthful indiscretions of an actor beloved for his performances. He described it as "messenger attack" and noise that distracts from the message. In another post, he linked Cho's case to judicial authority, suggesting that the focus should be on judicial authoritarianism rather than the actor's mistakes.

However, there are significant opposing views to Kim's defense. Many argue that Cho's retirement was a voluntary decision and that the revelation of his juvenile criminal record is shocking, given his history of playing righteous characters and speaking out on social issues. Some see it as deceitful to the public, considering the moral standards that have risen to the point where even a history of school violence can limit educational and career opportunities. Additionally, Jo's issues with assault and drunk driving as an adult have been highlighted.

In response to the allegations of his juvenile record and adult misconduct, Cho Jin-woong's representatives stated, "We deeply regret and reflect on the distress caused by immature decisions made as an adult." However, Cho denied claims of committing sexual violence as a teenager, acknowledging past wrongdoings but asserting that they did not involve sexual assault.