Professor Emeritus of Seoul National University criticizes Cho Jin-woo's retirement announcement: ”The media, not the actors, should be blamed”

Han In-seop, professor emeritus at Seoul University's Graduate School of Law, expressed his position on actor Jo Jin-woo's retirement following the controversy over his status as a former member of a juvenile delinquent crime group, saying, "It's a very wrong solution."
Professor Han wrote on his Facebook page on the 7th, "In the case of Cho Jin Woo, he made a mistake in his childhood and received the corresponding legal punishment," and added, "The boy (Cho Jin Woo) went through a dark period.
"It is commendable that they have not been held back by past mistakes and have worked hard for decades to reach a level where they are socially recognized," he said. "It is also a great guide for young people who are still wandering in the darkness.
"Someone, for some kind of attack -- whether for personal, political, or sensational reasons -- is digging up something from decades ago and burying current achievements alive," he said.
If they do, it is the media outlet, not the celebrity, that should be severely criticized by society."
Professor Han added, "In response to this attempt at burying someone alive, Cho Ji
"Nun's decision to suspend all activities is a very wrong solution," he said, advising her to "not be buried alive in such attempts, but to stand tall and stand up."
He also said, "We should remember how the Japanese imperialists exploited the personal weaknesses of the independence activists he favored, distorting their cause and burying them alive.
"Entertainers are in a sense the most vulnerable because they have to be conscious of their popularity with the public. They should not be influenced by others and take part in the foolish act of throwing stones, but should make wise decisions about what is right and what is not.
I want to see another side of him as a person who overcomes challenges and setbacks." On the 5th, Dispatch reported based on information that Cho Jin Woo was accused of vehicle theft during his high school days.
It was reported that he was involved in a sexual assault case and sent to a juvenile detention center. It was also reported that he had a history of assault and drunk driving after his debut as an actor. As the controversy spread, Jo Jin Woo admitted to some of his past mistakes.
He also denied the allegations of direct involvement in the sexual assault. Jo Jin Woo then said, "I deeply apologize for disappointing everyone who trusted and supported me due to my past scandals.
"I humbly accept all criticism and have decided to suspend all activities as of today, putting an end to my career as an actor," he said.
Regarding his decision to retire, Jo Jin Woo said, "I believe this is the natural responsibility I must take for my past mistakes, and that it is the right thing to do. From now on, I will continue to act as a person.
I will do my best to reflect on myself and stand up straight."