Actor Cho Jin Woong’s agency has released an official statement addressing recent reports about his past.
On December 5, Dispatch published a report alleging that Cho Jin Woong had been involved in several serious incidents during his high school years.
According to the report, the actor was allegedly implicated in crimes such as vehicle theft and sexual assault during his youth and was reportedly sent to a youth detention center. The report also claimed that he had previously been booked for assault and drunk driving as an adult.
Following the publication of the report, Cho Jin Woong’s agency SARAM Entertainment responded by issuing an official statement clarifying its position on the matter.
The agency acknowledged that, after confirming details with the actor, certain wrongful actions did occur during his time as a minor.
However, it explained that more than 30 years have passed since the incidents in question, making it difficult to verify every aspect of the circumstances surrounding them. The agency also noted that the relevant legal processes connected to the incidents have already concluded.
At the same time, SARAM Entertainment firmly denied the allegation that Cho Jin Woong had been involved in sexual assault, stating that this claim is not true.
The agency further stated that Cho Jin Woong himself recognizes and reflects deeply on the fact that there were instances in his adulthood when poor judgment led to problems. It emphasized that the actor takes responsibility for his past actions and sincerely regrets causing harm or distress to others.
SARAM Entertainment also issued an apology to anyone who may have been hurt due to the actor’s past behavior. In addition, the agency expressed regret to fans and supporters who may feel disappointed by the revelations.
The statement also addressed speculation regarding Cho Jin Woong’s stage name. The agency clarified that his decision to use his father’s name as his stage name was not intended to hide his past. Instead, it was described as a personal commitment by the actor to reflect on his mistakes and strive to become a better person.
The agency’s full statement is as follows:
Hello, this is SARAM Entertainment.
We sincerely apologize for the concern caused by the delay in issuing our statement regarding reports about actor Cho Jin Woong, and we would like to share our official position.
After checking with the actor, we confirmed that there were wrongful actions taken during his years as a minor.
This is based on certain facts that have been verified though, and as more than 30 years have passed, it is difficult to fully ascertain all the circumstances. The relevant legal procedures have also already concluded, which presents limitations.
However, we clearly state that he was not involved in any actions related to sexual assault.
The actor also takes very seriously and deeply reflects on the fact that, even after becoming an adult, there were moments when his inadequate judgment caused trouble.
We offer our sincere apologies to everyone who suffered harm or was hurt due to the actor’s past wrongdoings.
We also apologize to those who have supported Cho Jin Woong for the disappointment he has caused.
However, regarding the fact that Cho Jin Woong has used his father’s name as his stage name, this was not for the purpose of concealing his past but arose from the actor’s sincere resolve to make a pledge to himself and become a better person, and we earnestly ask for your generous understanding regarding this.
Once again, we are truly apologetic for the concern that has been caused.
- What allegations were made against Cho Jin Woong?
Reports allege that Cho Jin Woong was involved in vehicle theft and sexual assault during his high school years.
- How did Cho Jin Woong's agency respond to the allegations?
SARAM Entertainment acknowledged that wrongful actions occurred during his youth but denied the sexual assault allegation.
- What did the agency say about the timeline of the incidents?
The agency noted that more than 30 years have passed since the incidents, making it difficult to verify all circumstances.
- Did Cho Jin Woong take responsibility for his past actions?
Yes, he recognizes and reflects on his past poor judgment and takes responsibility for his actions.
- What is the agency's stance on Cho Jin Woong's stage name?
The agency clarified that his use of his father's name as a stage name was not to hide his past but a personal commitment to improve.
- Did the agency issue any apologies?
Yes, SARAM Entertainment apologized to those hurt by Cho Jin Woong's past behavior and to fans for any disappointment caused.
