Actor Jang Dong-ju directly spoke to OSEN as he announced his retirement.
On the 15th, Jang posted on his social media, "I have lived for a long time under the name actor and received much love and support. All the moments I laughed and cried in front of the camera were the brightest times of my life," and announced his retirement, saying, "As of today I will lay down my life as actor Jang Dong-ju."
Jang added, "Although I am leaving the stage, I will never forget the hearts you have given me for the rest of my life. I am sincerely grateful that you have loved actor Jang Dong-ju until now."
Last November, after leaving a post saying 'I'm sorry' and suddenly disappearing, which caused concern, Jang surprised people in January by revealing that his phone had been hacked and he had been threatened. Jang said, "A call came from an unknown number and I learned that my phone had been completely hacked. I borrowed money by any means necessary. My family even sold the house for me. Because of the debts that arose suddenly, more debt accumulated and I lost billions of won. And I sat on a pile of debt."
Despite the difficult situation, Jang Dong-ju appeared in the SBS Friday-Saturday drama "No Tail to Tell" and strengthened his will to continue by signing an exclusive contract with Management W, but not long after he suddenly announced his retirement, shocking many.
In particular, Jang Dong-ju's retirement announcement was reported to have not been discussed in advance with his agency Management W. The agency reportedly tried to contact Jang to verify the authenticity and background of the retirement announcement, but has been unable to reach him.
Meanwhile, Jang was reached by OSEN that morning. Speaking in an even tone when he took the call, Jang said little in response to concerns from fans and the reaction that many were surprised by the abrupt retirement announcement, saying, "If you leave your questions by text I will answer. I am with my family for a meal right now, so it is difficult to talk." OSEN relayed questions related to the retirement, but no definitive response has come yet.
Jang Dong-ju, who debuted in 2012 in the play 'A Midsummer Night's Dream,' became known through the drama 'School 2017,' and appeared in 'Mr. Temporary,' 'I'll Be Your Night,' 'Unmasked,' "No Tail to Tell," and films including 'Honest Candidate,' 'Count,' and 'Handsome Guys.'
OSEN=Reporter Jang Wooyoung