Broadcaster Cho Sae-ho has stepped down from all programs and suspended activities amid 'ties to organized crime' and 'involvement' allegations, and his colleagues showed support by liking his apology post.
Earlier, on the 9th Cho Sae-ho wrote on his personal account, "I sincerely apologize for disappointing many people because of recent events. Thinking about how much of a disappointment this must have been for those who have liked and supported me for a long time, I have struggled a lot with what to say," and addressed the allegations of ties to organized crime.
He continued, "Having attended many local events over the years, I met many people I did not know before. As someone who stands before the public, I should have been more careful in my relationships with the people around me, but in my younger mind I do not think I dealt with all those connections with maturity. I deeply reflect on that," and added, "However, I want to say that the allegations raised because of those connections are completely untrue, as many people are worried. Of course, I understand well that the appearance shown in the photos themselves disappointed people. I was supposed to bring laughter and comfort to viewers, but instead caused discomfort and disappointment, and I again deeply reflect and apologize."
Cho Sae-ho also said, "Going through this has made me question whether it is right for me to continue on the programs I am involved in," and said, "I got married last year and have been trying to become a better person by starting a family, but through this I deeply feel there are still many shortcomings. Nevertheless, for the sake of the family I am responsible for, I plan to correct the untrue parts through the necessary procedures."
Cho Sae-ho announced his voluntary withdrawal from tvN's You Quiz on the Block and KBS2's 2 Days & 1 Night and effectively declared a halt to his broadcasting activities. He promised, "From now on I will manage my surroundings and actions more strictly so as not to cause the same disappointment. I will take this as an opportunity to deeply reflect and work to return with a more mature appearance."
Singer Yoon Jong-shin, DinDin, KCM; broadcasters Jang Sung-kyu, Sayuri, Shin A-young; actors Ji Ye-eun, Kim Ki-bang; comedians Son Heon-su, Yoon Hyung-bin; KOYOTE member Baekga, and others expressed support by liking his lengthy apology post.
Currently DinDin is working with Cho Sae-ho on 2 Days & 1 Night, so his regret is expected to be even greater. Yoon Jong-shin and Jang Sung-kyu built friendships with Cho Sae-ho while appearing together on various variety programs, and Ji Ye-eun also met him on web variety shows. Other colleagues who were acquaintances or had ties also showed support by liking the post.
On the 4th, an internet user identified as Mr. A raised allegations of Cho Sae-ho's ties to organized crime, sparking a controversy. The claim was that Cho Sae-ho had maintained a long relationship with Choi, a powerful organized crime figure accused of operating illegal gambling sites and money laundering. Mr. A alleged that Cho Sae-ho received expensive gifts from Choi, drank with him, and even promoted a franchise run by a member of the organized crime group.
Cho Sae-ho's agency said, "He was simply an acquaintance; there were no paid gifts or inappropriate relationships," and added, "We take this matter seriously and will continue to take strong legal action to restore the damaged image. He is not connected to Choi's business, and the allegations of receiving money or goods are groundless," they reiterated.
[Photo] OSEN DB
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