Actor Jung Woo Sung (51) became a hot topic after receiving enthusiastic cheers and applause from fellow actors at the 45th Blue Dragon Film Awards when he spoke about his recent paternity scandal.
On November 29, Jung Woo Sung made his first public appearance since the news of his son with model Moon Gabi broke. He attended the awards ceremony held at KBS Hall in Yeouido, Seoul, where he was nominated for Best Actor for his role in 12.12: The Day.
Jung, along with fellow nominee Hwang Jung Min, presented the Audience Choice Award, which ultimately went to their film In 12.12: The Day.
During his speech, Jung Woo Sung said:
“I sincerely thank the public. I’m here with the hope that my personal issues won’t leave a stain on this film or its team. I deeply apologize for causing concern and disappointment to those who supported me with love and expectations. I will bear all the criticism and take full responsibility as a father for my son until the end.“
As Jung Woo Sung spoke, the audience of industry peers responded with loud cheers and applause. This reaction sparked a backlash among netizens, many of whom criticized the actors for their enthusiastic support.
Online reactions: divided opinions
Critics took issue with the warm response, saying:
• “Why is this something to rejoice about?”
• “It is absurd to applaud as if he has done something extraordinary.”
• “This reaction shows how normalized such scandals are in the entertainment industry.”
• “They ignored the tribute to Kim Soo Mi and Song Jae Rim but cheered for Jung Woo Sung? The lack of decorum is appalling.”
Others defended the actors, commenting:
• “It’s not a crime; people are too strict.”
• “It is understandable to show support as colleagues.”
The criticism comes amid a series of controversies surrounding Jung Woo Sung, including rumors of his relationship with a non-celebrity and leaked private photos.
The scandal and Jung’s statement
On November 24, Jung Woo Sung’s agency, Artist Company, confirmed that he is the father of the baby Moon Gabi gave birth to in March.
The agency said“The baby that Moon Gabi revealed on social media is in fact Jung Woo Sung’s biological son. Discussions are ongoing about the best path for the child’s education, and Jung Woo Sung remains committed to fulfilling his responsibilities as a father.”
Jung Woo Sung and Moon Gabi reportedly met in 2022. When Moon informed him of her pregnancy in June 2023, he promised to take responsibility for the child’s upbringing. However, Jung has expressed no intention of getting married, reportedly causing tension between the two.
Moon Gabi is currently focused on raising her son, while Jung Woo Sung continues filming the Disney+ series Made in Korea.
Source: Stella today
