In a matter of days, three big names in South Korea's entertainment industry have made headlines in separate scandals that could derail their careers.
The allegations that have embroiled comedians Park Na-rae and Cho Sae-ho, along with veteran actor Cho Jin-woong, vary from workplace abuse to historical detentions for serious offenses. Despite the differences, the result has been a uniform retreat from the public eye.
As these scandals unfold, questions are raised about the standards imposed on South Korea's public figures, particularly within the entertainment sector.
What are the scandals about?
Park Na-rae, one of the country's most successful female comedians, made headlines last week when two of her former managers lodged criminal complaints alleging verbal abuse and physical assault. Claims also include accusations of coercing her staff into conducting personal chores. Park denied these allegations, launching a counter-lawsuit for blackmail. Additionally, she faces scrutiny for allegedly receiving unauthorized IV drips, prompting a police investigation.
In response to the swirling accusations, Park announced her temporary withdrawal from television to avoid burdening her colleagues and programs.
Meanwhile, Cho Sae-ho's struggles began with allegations of friendship with a gang member and claims of financial gain from promoting gang business operations. Following intense public backlash, he stepped down from his hosting roles on popular programs, stating he had underestimated the significance of his associations.
Veteran actor Cho Jin-woong's situation is particularly explosive, as reports surfaced detailing his troubled past, including a juvenile detention sentence for robbery and sexual assault allegations. His agency confirmed some mistakes but denied any sexual misconduct. Following this, he announced his retirement from acting.
A debate over cancel culture
The situation has incited fierce discussions about the principles of cancel culture in South Korea. Some critics question why Cho Jin-woong should step down, arguing that past mistakes should not dictate a lifetime of judgment.
Others contend that acknowledging such history is crucial, as his visibility might reactivate trauma for his past victims.
Cultural observers note that celebrities often bear the brunt of public scrutiny in a society eager to correct perceived misdeeds. This scrutiny calls for a deeper consideration of how society responds to the failures and successes of its public figures.
This trend of targeting celebrities online has sparked discontent among netizens, with many advocating for a reevaluation of the cancel culture cycle in South Korea.
