In June 2024, Heo Woong, a prominent player for Busan KCC Egis, became the center of public attention after his ex-girlfriend, called only “A”, accused him of forcing her to undergo two abortions and sexually assaulting her during their secret relationship.
Charges of coercion and abuse
According to A, the relationship with Heo began in secret and led to two pregnancies: one in late 2019 and another in mid-2021. She claimed that Heo pressured her to terminate both pregnancies, allegedly telling her to “shut up” and not let anyone know, even as she asked for intimacy during or immediately after her medical procedures.
Leaked messages and audio recordings between the two quickly circulated on social media. One clip supposedly captures A confronting Heo: “You made me have an abortion so I wouldn’t burden you, right?” to which a voice resembling Heo’s responds, “What are you talking about? Why are you suddenly like this?”
Heo Woong counters with a blackmail lawsuit
Heo Woong promptly denied the allegations and filed a countersuit in June 2024 at the Gangnam Police Station, accusing A of blackmail, threats and violations of the anti-stalking law. He claimed that she demanded ₩300 million KRW (about $230,000 USD) in exchange for not publishing personal messages, photos and videos.
In September 2024, Korean police officially cleared Heo of sexual assault charges. A was then investigated for attempted extortion, while Heo filed a further defamation lawsuit against his legal advisor for allegedly instructing A to make false accusations.
In June 2025, prosecutors declined to indict A’s lawyer, ending the first phase of the complex legal battle. However, both lawsuits, Heo’s blackmail lawsuit and A’s forced abortion lawsuit, remain active in court.
Public opinion: a divided nation
Korean netizens are sharply divided. Some believe Heo is trying to save his public image, while others see him as a victim of an elaborate blackmail attempt. Many sports fans have urged the public to withhold judgment until final legal rulings are made.
“It’s easy to judge when emotions are high, but the court has to decide what’s real,” one fan commented on Naver Sports.
Where is Heo Woong now?
Despite the controversy, Heo Woong remained active in the KBL (Korean Basketball League), continuing to play for Busan KCC Egis. His performances during the 2024-2025 season remained strong, averaging over 13 points per game, contributing significantly to the team amid injuries and roster changes.
In mid-2025, Heo reunited with his younger brother Heo Hoon, forming the duo “Song Heo Brothers” who were celebrated in Korean basketball circles for their on-court synergy and off-court charisma.
On social media, Heo keeps a low profile, mostly sharing training and team-related content. Many fans praised his restraint and professionalism, choosing to focus on his career instead of fueling the ongoing scandal.
While public perception remains mixed, Heo Woong seems committed to rebuilding trust through discipline and performance, one game at a time.
Sources: kenh14
