Actor Cho Jin-woong admits to some juvenile crimes... ”Signal” Season 2 in jeopardy

Amidst the growing controversy surrounding actor Cho Jin-woong, who has admitted to some past criminal acts, the drama 'Signal' Season 2 (original title: The Second Signal), in which he stars, faces a crisis.

His agency, SARAM Entertainment, released a statement late on the 5th acknowledging allegations that Jo Jin-woong committed crimes during his teenage years.

Earlier, entertainment media outlet Dispatch reported, citing informants, that Cho Jin-woong committed a serious crime during his high school years, received juvenile protection measures, and was sent to a juvenile detention centre. The informants revealed that Cho Jin-woong was a so-called delinquent during high school, and that his gang was involved in suspicion of stealing from parked vehicles and attempting sexual assault. They stated he faced criminal trial on suspicion of robbery and rape under the Act on the Aggravated Punishment of Specific Crimes (Special Act).

In response, his agency issued a statement acknowledging, "Upon confirming with the actor, it was revealed that he had engaged in inappropriate behaviour during his minor years." However, the agency added, "This is based on partially confirmed facts. Given that over 30 years have passed, it is difficult to fully ascertain the circumstances, and as the related legal proceedings have already concluded, there are limitations," thus refraining from providing detailed explanations in the statement. The agency further countered, "This is unrelated to any acts involving sexual assault."

Cho Jin-woong is also facing allegations that, after reaching adulthood, he assaulted a colleague in a theatre troupe and has a prior record of drink-driving. Regarding this, the agency stated, "The actor himself deeply regrets and reflects on the moments after reaching adulthood when he caused concern through immature judgements." No specific details were provided on this matter either. Alongside this, the agency stated: "sincerely apologises to all those who suffered harm and pain due to the actor's past mistakes. We are also deeply sorry to have disappointed everyone who supported actor Cho Jin-woong."

Concerns have been raised that Cho Jin-woong's admission of past criminal acts may disrupt the broadcast schedule for "The Second Signal". 'Second Signal' is the sequel to 'Signal', which aired in 2016. Filming had already been completed, with the series scheduled for broadcast in the first half of 2026. Following season one, writer Kim Eun-hee penned the script, with Jo Jin-woong, Kim Hye-soo, and Lee Jae-hoon among the lead cast.

Planned as a major project for tvN's 20th anniversary, "The Second Signal" has been plunged into turmoil overnight due to its lead actor, Cho Jin-woong, who concealed his past criminal record. tvN has yet to issue a special statement regarding the fallout from this controversy.