The agency of Cho Jin Woong has made an official statement after reports emerged of the actor being involved in serious wrongdoing during his youth. As online discussions intensified and scrutiny of the actor's early life increased, the agency issued a response.

On December 5 report from Dispatch alleged Cho Jin Woong "was involved in severe crimes including vehicle theft and sexual assault when he was in high school and was sent to a youth detention center as a result."

The story also stated that "it was additionally reported that he was booked for assault and drunk driving as an adult." The resurfaced allegations quickly spread through Korean online communities and entertainment news outlets, including coverage highlighted by Soompi.

The agency recognized the public's concern and apologized. SARAM Entertainment opened with, "Hello, this is SARAM Entertainment."

Providing further explanation, the agency added another comment clarifying details: "We sincerely apologize for the concern caused by the delay in issuing our statement regarding reports about actor Cho Jin Woong, and we would like to share our official position."

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The agency said it has checked the facts directly with the actor. Before going into the details, the agency pointed out that more than three decades have passed, which makes it hard to confirm every aspect of the events. It then said, "After checking with the actor, we confirmed that there were wrongful actions taken during his years as a minor."

A clear denial followed. With a brief contextual lead-in, the agency asserted, "However, we clearly state that he was not involved in any actions related to sexual assault." The same message was driven home with much of the reporting from Koreaboo as the debate began to spill into public discourse.

The company has further commented on the actor's behavior as an adult. "The actor also takes very seriously and deeply reflects on the fact that, even after becoming an adult, there were moments when his inadequate judgment caused trouble," the statement said.

The agency went on to apologize to all those affected, with, "We offer our sincere apologies to everyone who suffered harm or was hurt due to the actor's past wrongdoings."

It also addressed the allegations regarding Cho Jin Woong's use of a stage name. "However, regarding the fact that Cho Jin Woong has used his father's name as his stage name, this was not for the purpose of concealing his past but arose from the actor's sincere resolve to make a pledge to himself and become a better person."

SARAM Entertainment closed with another apology, "Once again, we are truly apologetic for the concern that has been caused." As online discussions continue, the agency has expressed hope that the public will understand the actor's position and his efforts to take responsibility for his past.

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