Cho Jin-woong's side acknowledged, "There were wrongdoings during his minor years"… strongly denied, "The sexual assault allegations are not true"
Actor Cho Jin-woong issued an official statement regarding allegations that he was from a juvenile detention center and various past controversies, acknowledging some facts. However, he strongly denied any involvement in sexual assault and made clear that "it is unrelated to the facts."
#. acknowledged some facts… "It was 30 years ago, there are limits to fully identifying the circumstances"
On the 5th, his agency, Saram Entertainment, said, "As a result of directly confirming with the actor, we verified that there were actions he did wrong while a minor," acknowledging part of the controversy.
Earlier, Dispatch reported allegations that Cho Jin-woong was involved in vehicle theft and a sexual assault case in high school and was sent to a juvenile detention center, and raised additional allegations from his university years, including assault and drunk driving, shocking the public.
In response, the agency explained, "Because it was more than 30 years ago, it is difficult to fully ascertain all the circumstances, and the legal procedures have already been concluded."
#. "The sexual assault allegations are not true"… drew the firmest line
The agency firmly refuted the most controversial sexual assault allegations. "We make it clear that he is unrelated to any sexual assault-related acts," the agency said. With the implication that some parts were exaggerated or distorted due to the tips, Cho Jin-woong's side clearly drew the line that the sexual assault allegations are not true.
However, "He deeply reflects on mistakes made after becoming an adult," and sincerely apologized to the victims. Cho Jin-woong acknowledged mistakes not only during his minor years but also after becoming an adult and bowed his head. The agency issued an apology, saying, "After becoming an adult, there were moments when inadequate judgment caused concern, and the actor himself is taking this very seriously," and "We sincerely apologize to those who suffered harm and hurt from past wrongs. We are sorry to have disappointed those who supported him."
The stance centered on reflection and responsibility.
#. also clarified the name change allegation… "It was not to hide the past but a sign of respect for his father"
When some tipsters claimed, "Isn't the name change to hide his real name?", the agency also corrected that.
Cho Jin-woong's real name is Cho Won-jun, and his current stage name, 'Cho Jin-woong,' was taken directly from his father's name. The agency said, "It was not intended to hide the past, but arose from a determination to vow to himself and become a better person," and asked, "Please kindly understand that sincerity."
Because Cho Jin-woong previously said on broadcasts that he chose his stage name out of respect for his father, this explanation is receiving renewed attention.
Cho Jin-woong was embroiled in past controversies while preparing comeback works including tvN's 'Signal 2,' but he acknowledged some wrongs, clearly denied the sexual assault allegations, and offered sincere reflection and apology, drawing attention to how public opinion will respond going forward.<
[Photo] OSEN DB
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