Jung Woo Sung‘s response to recent personal controversy has sparked mixed reactions from fellow actors and the public alike.
The 45th Blue Dragon Film Awards took place on November 29th at KBS Hall in Yeouido and aired live on KBS 2TV. The actor recently confirmed fathering a child outside of marriage and deliberated over attending the event. He ultimately skipped the red carpet this yearbut appeared on stage to present the Audience Choice Award, which his film Spring in Seoul won.
In his acceptance speech, Jung said, “I stand here today with Spring in Seoul, hoping my personal matters do not cast a shadow on this film or those who contributed to it.” He added, “To everyone who has supported me with love and expectations, I deeply apologize for causing worry and disappointment.” Jung concluded by saying, “I will take all criticism upon myself and carry it. As a father, I will fulfill my responsibilities to my son to the end.”
While his composed and candid remarks drew attention, the reactions from fellow actors varied. As Jung spoke about the extramarital child, cameras captured actors such as Lim Ji Yeon, Park Joo Hyun, and Lee Jung Ha clapping and cheering. In particular, Lim Ji Yeon stood out, with netizens pointing out her affiliation with Jung Woo Sung and Lee Jung Jae, who are both directors at her agency, Artist Company. Some speculated that her response was simply an act of “playing it safe” to stay on good terms with her bosses.
In contrast, Hyeri appeared noticeably stiff and somewhat puzzled, offering only a polite clap. Her reaction attracted attention, especially as she had previously faced public scrutiny regarding her relationship with Ryu Jun Yeol and the feud against his ex-girlfriend, Han So Hee. Netizens offered varied interpretations of her reserved response.
Critics wondered if Jung deserved applause and cheers for emphasizing his role as a father while avoiding the bigger controversies in his personal life. Some also felt it was inappropriate for him to share such personal remarks at an awards ceremony where he wasn’t the main honoree. Furthermore, the enthusiastic applause from certain actors was seen by some as a reflection of the entertainment industry’s indifference to personal scandals.
However, others defended the supportive reactions, arguing that since Jung had committed no legal wrongdoing, it was natural for his colleagues to show solidarity.
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