Actor Jo Jin Woong has decided to take responsibility for his past mistakes after his juvenile offender controversy, ending his 21-year acting career.
Dispatch Reveals Popular K-Drama Actor’s Dark Past As A “Robber And Rapist”
On the 6th, through his agency, Saram Entertainment, Jo stated, “I humbly accept all criticism and will cease all activities from today,” adding, “I will do my best to reflect and stand upright as a human being.” This announcement came just one day after allegations surfaced that he had committed a crime in high school and received juvenile protection measures.
Jo Jin Woong played detective roles in dramas like Signal, and films such as Perfect Number and Believer. He also appeared as an independence activist in several films, participated as a special envoy for the repatriation of General Hong Beom Do‘s remains, and represented the nation in reading the pledge to the flag at this year’s 80th Liberation Day ceremony.
The juvenile offender controversy caused an even greater shock due to the stark contrast between the allegations and the just and upright image he had built as an actor.
As his past came to light and public opinion turned cold, some argued that criticizing him over his juvenile protection record is inappropriate, considering that juvenile law aims to correct antisocial behavior and support healthy development.
Professor Han In Seop, emeritus professor at Seoul National University Law School, wrote on Facebook, “In Jo Jin Woong’s case, he made mistakes in his youth and duly faced the appropriate legal sanctions.”
He added, “The fact that he did not sink into a dark past but worked hard for decades to achieve social recognition should be praised,” and “He can serve as an excellent guide and role model for youths still struggling in darkness today.“
