Comedian Cho Sae-ho decided to return quickly, and an internet user who raised allegations of his involvement with organized crime said they might make additional disclosures.
Internet user A recently posted on social media, "Cho Sae-ho is returning? He disappeared overseas so the investigation couldn't proceed, and now he's suddenly coming back? Fine, return. Then I'll also release a video shot at the (organized crime) house with my wife," the post said.
Person A was the first to raise the allegation that Cho Sae-ho was involved with organized crime. He claimed that Cho Sae-ho was close friends with Choi, a key figure in the largest gang in the Geochang area. He alleged that Choi ran illegal online gambling sites and committed illegal acts such as money laundering, and that Cho Sae-ho promoted Choi's franchise restaurant and afterward received expensive gifts.
Photos that appeared to show Cho Sae-ho and Choi together in the past were released and attracted attention. Cho Sae-ho strongly denied the claims, saying Choi was merely an acquaintance and that the allegations of paid gifts were unfounded. Still, Person A had warned of further disclosures suggesting that Cho Sae-ho and his wife were close friends with Choi. Cho Sae-ho suspended his broadcasting activities and said he would pursue strong legal action.
Last month, the producers of the Netflix variety show "Screwballs" said they were preparing a new season and issued an official statement: "Everyone is working hard to prepare the new season. Cho Sae-ho, following last season, will also join the next season of 'Screwballs.' We ask for your interest and affection," signaling Cho Sae-ho's quick return.
Person A appeared determined to continue the additional disclosures that had been paused while Cho Sae-ho halted his activities. He even added, "You told him to keep a low profile and return quietly, but now you want to take me on. Fine. Try returning once. Just a casual acquaintance? A simple friendship—introducing his wife before marriage and drinking together at home? All right," heightening the tension.
Meanwhile, Cho Sae-ho has stepped down from existing shows such as KBS 2TV's variety show "2 Days & 1 Night" and tvN's variety show "You Quiz on the Block." "Screwballs" is a variety show that follows "Hong Kim Dongjeon," in which Cho Sae-ho appeared with Kim Sook, Hong Jin Kyung, Joo Woo Jae and 2PM's Jang Wooyoung. Cho Sae-ho, an original member, is set to appear through season 4 following the previous three seasons.
[Photo] OSEN DB.
[OSEN]