The Korean entertainment industry has witnessed several shocking scandals. These incidents have permanently damaged careers and reputations. Many cases resulted in legal consequences and prison time.
1. Jo Hyung Ki
Jo started his acting career in 1979 with the K-Drama “Chief Inspector.” His supporting roles in the 1980s helped build his reputation.
A DUI incident in 1991 led to tragic consequences. He served one year in prison. Jo later returned to entertainment and appeared in various shows. In 2017, public backlash about his past forced his retirement.
2. Lee Hyun Woo
Lee began as a singer in 1991 and later moved into acting. His popularity grew throughout the 1990s. He appeared as a judge on “Mr. Trot Season 2” in 2022. People nicknamed him “Grand Hyun Woo” due to multiple scandals.
He faced a cannabis charge in 1993. Lee avoided military service by staying in the U.S. He received two DUI charges in 2006 and 2007. A controversial business deal with GBS in 2008 caused financial losses to investors.
3. Go Young Wook
Go performed with the K-Pop group Roo’Ra. He received a prison sentence in 2013 for serious offenses.
Social media platforms banned his attempts to return in 2020. Public backlash prevented his comeback efforts.
4. DJ Yesong
Yesong started in the pre-debut group Instar before becoming a DJ. Her career ended after a serious DUI incident. The court sentenced her to 10 years in prison.
5. Han Seo Hee
Han’s name frequently appears in celebrity controversies. She trained to become a K-Pop idol and dated BIGBANG’s T.O.P. The court gave her probation and mandatory treatment for drug-related charges.
6. Jung Joon Young
Jung worked as a musician and variety show performer. He played key roles in “2 Days & 1 Night” and “We Got Married.” The 2019 Burning Sun scandal ended his career. He served five years in prison for serious offenses. Authorities released him in March 2024.
7. Seungri
Seungri performed with the popular K-Pop group BIGBANG. The Burning Sun scandal forced his retirement. He served 18 months for multiple charges. Authorities released him in February 2023.
8. Choi Jonghoon
Choi performed with the K-Rock band F.T. Island. The Burning Sun scandal involved him in serious legal issues. He served two years in prison. After his release in November 2021, he attempted an industry comeback.
