The situation surrounding actor Jang Dong-joo is becoming increasingly complicated. After his sudden retirement announcement, a confession of debt and various allegations followed, and eventually even his agency took a hard-line stance.
Earlier, Jang Dong-joo surprised fans by suddenly announcing his retirement on his personal social media, saying, "I will give up my life as actor Jang Dong-joo as of today." In particular, fans' worries grew because the news came only a short time after he revealed phone hacking damage and the fact of large debt.
Later, Jang Dong-joo opened up about his feelings directly through a live broadcast. He explained his retirement decision, saying, "I must not harm other actors and staff," and said, "I may return if I get the chance someday, but I think it is right to focus on repaying my debt right now." At the same time, he drew a line, saying he had no intention of applying for individual rehabilitation or bankruptcy.
Although Jang Dong-joo said he chose retirement to avoid harming others, his agency's position was completely different. Management W said on the 17th in an official statement that "Jang Dong-joo's retirement announcement was made unilaterally by the actor himself without any prior discussion with our company."
They went on to use strong language, saying it was "a very irresponsible act that betrayed the responsibilities and trust of an actor under contract," and warned of a tough response. The agency added, "We judge that the trust relationship with actor Jang Dong-joo is in fact at an irrecoverable level, and we will review all matters including whether to maintain the contract going forward."
Meanwhile, some personal life and financial allegations have recently been raised surrounding Jang Dong-joo, but those contents have not been confirmed through his official position or investigative agencies.
In the end, Jang Dong-joo's explanation that he "retired because he did not want to harm those around him" and his agency's position that it was a "unilateral and irresponsible decision" are in direct conflict. Controversy has grown further after the sudden retirement announcement.
[Photo] OSEN DB
[OSEN]