Actor Jo Jin-woong has announced his decision to retire from the entertainment industry, taking responsibility for controversies surrounding his past.

On the 6th, through his agency SARAM Entertainment, Jo issued an official statement declaring his retirement. “I bow my head in apology to everyone who trusted and supported me, for disappointing you due to my disgraceful past,” he said. He continued, “I humbly accept all criticism, and as of today, I will be ceasing all activities and drawing the curtain on my acting career.”

Jo Jin-woong’s sudden announcement comes just a day after Dispatch reported on his juvenile court trial for robbery and sexual assault, which led to his detention in a juvenile facility. Following that report, further allegations emerged regarding car theft during his high school years, an assault conviction with a fine during his theater days, and suspicions of a revoked driving license for drunk driving, intensifying the controversy.

SARAM Entertainment responded with an official statement on the 6th, acknowledging, “It is true some mistakes were made during his youth, but the sexual assault allegation is not true.”

The agency added, “Jo himself deeply regrets his shortcomings as an adult and sincerely apologizes to all those who were harmed or hurt by his past actions.”

Over the past two decades, Jo Jin-woong had built a successful career in films and dramas, gaining widespread public affection. However, with the recent turbulence, his slated appearance in the upcoming drama ‘Signal 2’ and other future activities have inevitably suffered major setbacks.

In his statement, Jo remarked, “I believe this is the rightful responsibility and duty I must bear for my past wrongdoings. From now on, I will do my utmost to reflect as an individual and stand upright.” He concluded with, “Thank you and I am sorry to everyone I have loved and respected.”

Note “This article was translated from the original Korean version using AI assistance, and subsequently edited by a native-speaking journalist.”

Photo=MHN DB