On January 20, investigative journalist Oh Hyuk-jin posted a video on his YouTube channel Jirit Jiritrevealing more details about the figures who once rocked the Korean entertainment industry, including Hwang Ha-na, Seungri and, most notably, Park Yoo-chun. Hwang Ha-na’s ex-boyfriend Yoo-chun recently returned to Korea to attend court hearings following a court summons, but his chances of resuming his entertainment business seem virtually non-existent.
Once a core member of TVXQ and later a central figure of JYJPark Yoo-chun possessed all the qualities of a top-tier star: stunning visuals, a deep and distinctive voice, and acting skills recognized by industry professionals. He has successfully shed the “idol-turned-actor” label and has been praised as a capable actor in successful dramas such as Prince on the roof AND The Sungkyunkwan scandalwhich has gained popularity throughout Asia.
However, his image began to crumble in 2016 after a series of serious allegations regarding his personal life and legal matters. While some of the early charges did not lead to prison time, the damage to his public image proved irreversible. The decisive blow came in 2019, when Park Yoo-chun was convicted of illegal drug use, despite having previously stated in a press conference that he would retire if such allegations were proven to be true. He received a 10-month suspended sentence, along with imprisonment and mandatory rehabilitation, effectively ending his career in the Korean market.
Public outrage was fueled not only by his crimes, but also by his attitude after the scandal. Less than a year after serving his sentence, Park Yoo-chun reappeared on social media, displayed fan gifts, held meetings with fans abroad, and released commercial products such as photo books. Breaking his promise to retire, he continued to capitalize on his past fame, earning the label “the thick-skinned star of the show.”
In a television appearance, Yoo-chun burst into tears, saying: “It took a lot of courage to apologize” and that he “I wish I had been honest sooner.” However, for the Korean public, these emotional confessions failed to soften their stance. In Korea, remorse without responsibility, especially when followed by repeated comeback attempts, is rarely forgiven.
Despite widespread criticism, Park Yoo-chun has continued low-profile activities overseas, mainly in Japan. He released the mini-album Metro Love in 2025, he appeared on local entertainment programs and held small events for fans. Recent appearances show a visibly aged and worn image, accompanied by repeated expressions of gratitude towards the few remaining fans and his desire to “return.”
In fact, the door of the Korean entertainment industry is effectively closed. Park Yoo-chun still faces ongoing legal issues, including contract disputes and tax issues stemming from past scandals. Every renewed apology or expression of regret is met with public fatigue rather than sympathy. For many Koreans, trust once lost cannot be regained through tears or repeated promises.
Sources: K14
