Amid the spread of rumors linking comedian Jo Se Ho to gang affiliations, his agency has firmly denied the claims as “completely baseless,” yet calls from netizens for his removal are growing louder.
High-Profile TV Star Firmly Denies Involvement With Gang Boss
On the night of the 4th, his agency A2Z Entertainment told OSEN, “The various allegations recently circulating on social media that Jo Se Ho received expensive gifts from certain acquaintances are entirely untrue,” dismissing the rumors outright.
Previously, a social media account accused Jo Se Ho of frequently associating with a franchise run by a member of an organized crime gang. The account claimed, “A person named Choi is a key figure in a local violent gang and is involved in illegal online gambling operations and money laundering,” demanding Jo Se Ho provide explanations.
Photos showing Jo Se Ho hugging or talking with Mr. Choi were also released on social media, fueling the controversy. In response, the agency emphasized, “He is an acquaintance made through various events, and there have been no gifts exchanged as compensation nor any inappropriate relationships.”
Nevertheless, the official You Quiz on the Block account has been flooded with calls for his resignation. Despite Jo Se Ho’s immediate denial, online public opinion remains heated. On the official You Quiz on the Block social media, comments like “Don’t tarnish Yoo Jae Suk’s image; step down voluntarily,” “Is it okay for Jo Se Ho to continue appearing?” and “The production team needs to verify this” continue to pour in, demanding his removal.
Jo Se Ho’s acknowledgment that Choi is a “simple acquaintance” has further fueled criticism from netizens. Some have questioned, “The explanation that he’s just an acquaintance seems even stranger,” expressing suspicion.
This controversy has also revived past issues related to Jo Se Ho’s broadcasts, amplifying the impact. In particular, a prior incident where he attended a “breast cancer drinking party” before interviewing breast cancer patient Park Mi Sun on You Quiz has been reexamined, intensifying the backlash over questions of sincerity.
Currently, Jo Se Ho is a regular cast member on tvN’s You Quiz on the Block and KBS2’s 2 Days & 1 Night Season 4. Both shows prioritize image and trustworthiness, so if the controversy drags on, the production teams are expected to face increasing pressure.
