Seoul National University professor criticizes Choi Jin Woong’s retirement as ‘wrong solution’ amid juvenile crime controversy

Choi Jin WoongThe recent announcement of his retirement from the entertainment industry has sparked a public debate, with Seoul National University professor Han In Seop publicly criticizing the decision as “a very wrong solution”. In a statement posted on his social media on December 7, the respected criminal law expert stressed that the actor, who had a juvenile criminal record, should oppose what he called an “attempt at social burial.”

Professor Han said this in the meantime Choi Jin Woong made mistakes in his youth and suffered legal consequences, the primary purpose of juvenile justice is to educate and rehabilitate, not to permanently brand individuals. He noted: “This is why we use the term “school” instead of “detention center” for juvenile institutions. The goal is reinstatement, not permanent punishment.“

He praised Choi Jin Woongdecades-long acting career as a model of redemption, adding that “someone who has overcome a troubled past and earned public respect through years of dedication can serve as a beacon for troubled youth.” Responding to criticism that Jo never revealed her record, Han noted: “No one is forced to wear their past like a scarlet letter on their forehead. Our society is built to allow for second chances.“

Han also took issue with the media and public for the revival Choi Jin Woongof his teenage past, accusing them of trying to destroy his career for provocative or political reasons. He wrote: “If someone brings up decades-old mistakes to tarnish a person’s current accomplishments, the outrage should be directed at the media, not the individual.“

ON Choi Jin WoongAt the announcement to suspend all activities, Han expressed strong disapproval: “Retiring completely is not the answer. This is a time when he should stand up, not retreat.” He also responded to criticism leveled at Jo for previously starring in independence movement-themed works, saying: “TThe Japanese colonial government also sought to discredit the independence fighters by highlighting their personal flaws. Let’s not repeat history.“

Singer Lee Jung Seok added his voice to the discussion via social media, writing, “Why do you force someone to retire? Were you all so perfect? This world is disgusting.Even if he didn’t mention his name Choi Jin Woong directly, the timing of his comment left little room for doubt.

Choi Jin WoongThe 49-year-old, known for his gripping performances in crime films and thrillers such as Les Formidables, Perfect Number and Believer, achieved national fame with the 2016 hit drama Signal, where he played an upright detective. His nickname “National Detective” comes from the integrity he brought to that role.

On December 6th, Choi announced his retirement through his agency, Saram Entertainment, following a Dispatch report accusing him of car theft and involvement in a sexual assault case during his high school years, which led to juvenile detention. As an adult, he was also reportedly fined for assault and had his license suspended for drunk driving. Although his agency admitted to some of the juvenile crimes, he strongly denied the sexual assault allegation. They also clarified this Choi Jin WoongUsing her father’s name as her stage name was not an attempt to hide her past but a promise to live a better life.

In his statement, Choi he said, “I bow my head and apologize to everyone who trusted me and supported me. I accept all criticism and will now step away from acting to reflect as a human being.But with more and more voices urging compassion and perspective, Choi Jin Woong’s case could become a pivotal moment in South Korea’s growing debate over cancel culture and redemption.

Sources: Sports Seoul, Dispatch, Saram Entertainment

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