In brief
O Yeong-Su, acclaimed for his role in 'Squid Game,' has been acquitted of sexual misconduct charges. Initially found guilty in 2024, an appeal led to the reversal of his sentence, with the court citing doubts over the victim's memory and a lack of definitive evidence. This ruling has sparked outrage among advocacy groups, questioning the handling of sexual violence in the arts sector.
O Yeong-Su, the 81-year-old star of the global sensation 'Squid Game,' has been acquitted of charges of sexual misconduct by a South Korean court.
Initially charged in 2022 for allegedly sexually assaulting a woman twice—by hugging her and kissing her on the cheek against her will—the case took a significant turn after O was found guilty in 2024, receiving an eight-month suspended sentence. At that time, he stated his intention to appeal, claiming his innocence.
On November 11, 2025, the appeals court overturned the initial verdict, stating that O had completed educational classes on sexual violence and expressing uncertainty regarding the victim's recollection about the incidents, which reportedly took place in 2017 during a theater performance in a rural area.
The court pointed out, 'There is a possibility that the victim's memory has been distorted over time, and when there is doubt... the defendant must be given the benefit of the doubt.'
However, the court also acknowledged the possibility that O may have committed an assault, noting that he had previously apologized to the alleged victim. Following the ruling, the victim released a statement expressing her discontent, stating that the verdict would not negate the truth or lessen her suffering. She emphasized her commitment to continue advocating for her truth with the support of women's rights organization Womenlink, which condemned the ruling as furthering the concealment of sexual violence within theatre.
The acquittal has brought to light significant discussions on the complexities surrounding sexual assault cases, particularly regarding memory and consent. Advocacy groups have criticized the judicial handling of such cases, which they believe fails to protect survivors adequately.
O Yeong-Su, who gained international acclaim for his role in 'Squid Game,' was recognized as the first South Korean actor to win a Golden Globe award for best supporting actor in a series for his performance in this Netflix hit.
