Allegations linking broadcaster Cho Sae-ho to organized crime are spreading again. The whistleblower A, who has raised suspicions, this time raised the stakes by releasing a photo from a drinking gathering that appears to show Cho Sae-ho attending.
On the 8th, A wrote on his social media, "There may be people who criticize me in relation to Cho Sae-ho," but added, "As a public figure who operates based on the public's trust and influence, Cho Sae-ho has the responsibility to manage relationships that could cause misunderstanding," he asserted. He went on to say strongly, "He has been colluding with organized crime for decades."
A also questioned, "He drove foreign cars worth hundreds of millions of won at a young age, wore watches worth hundreds of millions of won, and kept company with people who even had attendants," and asked, "Knowing that fact, is it common sense to promote businesses run by that person, receive luxury gifts and watches worth hundreds of millions of won because he was a 'friend,' and be entertained at high-end drinking parties with hospitality ranging from millions to tens of millions of won?"
He added, "If there really had been no problem, would he have voluntarily withdrawn from all broadcasts?" and said, "I do not believe it is a coincidence that the person who said they would sue me fled overseas to Dubai at the same time as his return to broadcasting." A released the photo along with the comment, saying, "Even if I face criticism, I have no intention of stopping the exposes."
The released photo appears to show Cho Sae-ho enjoying a drinking gathering with acquaintances, drawing attention by showing high-end champagne and spirits. However, when and in what context the photo was taken has not been confirmed.
Earlier, A fanned the flames of controversy by releasing past photos showing Cho Sae-ho with a person surnamed Choi. In response, Cho Sae-ho drew a line, saying, "He is just an acquaintance I met at a local event and has nothing to do with organized crime," and denied the allegation of paid-for gifts as "groundless."
Immediately after the controversy erupted, Cho Sae-ho voluntarily withdrew from all programs he was appearing on, including You Quiz on the Block and 2 Days & 1 Night, season 4, and announced a suspension of activities. His agency also issued an official statement saying, "All allegations are not true, and we will take strong legal action against false claims."
Meanwhile, with recent news of the production of Netflix variety show Screwballs season 4 and the officialization of Cho Sae-ho's joining, there was speculation that he might be taking steps toward a comeback. However, as the whistleblower continued with additional claims and released photos, the controversy over Cho Sae-ho's return did not seem likely to subside easily.
As allegations and rebuttals repeat, attention is focused on whether Cho Sae-ho's side will issue further statements and pursue legal action.
[Photo] OSEN DB
[OSEN]