Korean celebrities often face career-changing scandals. These incidents can force them to take extended breaks from the entertainment industry. Let’s explore some notable cases.
1. Oh Hyun Kyung
A privacy breach in 1998 led to Oh Hyun Kyung’s sudden career halt. She faced intense public criticism despite being a victim.
The incident forced her to leave South Korea temporarily. After nearly a decade, she made a successful comeback in 2007. Her return to acting helped her regain her previous fame.
2. Han Ye Seul
Han Ye Seul starred in the K-Drama Spy Myung-Wol. She made headlines after leaving for the United States during filming. Poor working conditions drove her to take this drastic step.
She later returned to complete the drama. The public backlash led to a three-year break from acting.
3. Kim Hyun Joong
Legal issues emerged in 2014 when Kim Hyun Joong faced charges involving his ex-girlfriend. The settlement didn’t prevent damage to his public image.
He returned to acting in 2018 with When Time Stops. Many fans opposed his comeback. The scandal significantly impacted his acting career.
4. Han Ji Sun
Han Ji Sun faced accusations of assaulting a taxi driver in September 2018. The incident came to light in 2019. Her apology failed to salvage her reputation.
She left her role in The Secret Life of My Secretary. Five years later, she remains absent from television.
5. Lee Kyung Young
Legal troubles found Lee Kyung Young in 2002. The court sentenced him to 10 months in prison.
Korean broadcast channels banned him from appearing on their networks. MBC lifted their ban in 2014.
6. Kim Sae Ron
Kim Sae Ron’s DUI incident occurred in May 2022 in Seoul’s Gangnam district. Her actions caused power outages affecting local businesses.
She lost her role in the K-Drama Trolley but kept her part in Bloodhounds. A theater play in April 2024 marked her first appearance after a two-year break.
