“Signal 2” Actor’s Past Controversies Surface

Actor Cho Jin-woong has admitted to committing wrongful acts as a minor and apologized for inappropriate behavior such as drunk driving, but denies allegations of sexual violence.

Agency Denies Sexual Violence Allegations

On November 5, his agency released an official statement saying: “After confirming with the actor, it is true that he engaged in wrongful behavior during his teenage years. However, the information is based only on partially confirmed facts, and because more than 30 years have passed, it is difficult to fully grasp the exact circumstances. The relevant legal procedures have also long been concluded, so there are certain limitations.” The agency then made clear, “Cho Jin-woong has no involvement whatsoever in any acts related to sexual violence.”

Regarding controversies over violence during his pre-debut days and drunk driving, the agency stated, “Even after becoming an adult, there were moments where poor judgment caused concern. The actor himself feels extremely burdened by this and is deeply reflecting. We sincerely apologize to everyone who was hurt because of the actor’s past mistakes. We are truly sorry for disappointing those who have supported (him).”

Explains Why He Adopted Father’s Name

As for allegations that Jo Jin-woong adopted his father’s name as his stage name to conceal past crimes, the agency explained, “Using his father’s name as his stage name was not an attempt to hide his past. It was a personal decision he made out of determination to become a better person. We hope everyone can understand the sincerity behind this choice with generosity.”

Previous reports highlighted that Cho Jin-woong committed serious crimes while in high school, for which he was sent to a juvenile reformatory. A delinquent at school, he had been involved in stealing cars with friends, and was also linked to a sexual violence case. In his second year of high school, he reportedly faced criminal trial for theft and rape charges. After reaching adulthood, he was fined for assaulting a theatre troupe member, and during the filming of the movie Once Upon a Time in High School, he had his driver’s license revoked for driving under the influence.

Following the revelations about Cho Jin-woong’s past, many netizens expressed shock. While filming for his next project Signal 2, the long-awaited sequel to Signal, has already been completed and expected to be released in 2026, whether Jo Jin-woong’s past controversies will affect its broadcast remains to be seen.

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