Cho Jin Woong's agency reacts to allegations of past crimes, identity change
South Korean actor Cho Jin Woong's agency has addressed allegations about his past.
Jin Woong, whose real name is Cho Won Joon, allegedly changed his identity and location after he was said to be involved in serious crimes when he was still in high school, Dispatch first reported.
The 49-year-old actor, who uses his father's name, "Jin Woong," as a stage name, was allegedly involved in car theft and sexual assault early in life. These allegations reportedly resulted in a period of time spent in a juvenile detention center.
Although he later pursued an acting career, reports suggest he was entangled in other incidents as well.
Following this, his agency SARAM Entertainment released a statement.
"We sincerely apologize for the concern caused by the delay in issuing our statement regarding reports about actor Cho Jin Woong, and we would like to share our official position," they started. "After checking with the actor, we confirmed that there were wrongful actions taken during his years as a minor."
SARAM Entertainment said that this was based on "certain facts that have been verified," but since more than 30 years have passed, "it is difficult to fully ascertain all the circumstances."
"The relevant legal procedures have also already concluded, which presents limitations," they explained.
Jin Woong's agency, however, denied his involvement in any sexual assault.
"The actor also takes very seriously and deeply reflects on the fact that, even after becoming an adult, there were moments when his inadequate judgment caused trouble," they said.
"We offer our sincere apologies to everyone who suffered harm or was hurt due to the actor’s past wrongdoings. We also apologize to those who have supported Cho Jin Woong for the disappointment he has caused," they continued.
With regards to using his father's name as his stage name, SARAM Entertainment clarified that it was not to cover his past, but Jin Woong's "sincere resolve to make a pledge to himself and become a better person."
The agency asked for the public's "generous understanding regarding this" and have apologized for the concern it has caused.
Jin Woong debuted in 2004 and is known for his roles in series like Signal and the films Nameless Gangster: Rules of the Time and Believer. He won the Best Actor award at the 51st Baeksang Arts Awards for his role in A Hard Day.