With Cho Jin Woong announcing his retirement following his personal scandal, attention is mounting over the fate of tvN’s highly anticipated drama The Second Signal, aka Signal 2, in which he plays a key role. Amid the uncertainty, online sightings of fellow lead Lee Je Hoon have sparked a mix of anxiety and anticipation among fans.
Recently, several photos were posted on social media along with the caption, “Lee Je Hoon spotted filming ‘Signal 2.’ Just thinking we might not get to see this makes my head spin.” In the images, Lee Je Hoon is seen wearing a police uniform, striking a pose that instantly recalls his character Park Hae Young. The post quickly spread online, reigniting excitement among fans who have been eagerly awaiting the sequel.
Signal 2 was specially planned to mark tvN’s 20th anniversary, reuniting writer Kim Eun Hee with original cast members Kim Hye Soo, Cho Jin Woong, and Lee Je Hoon from Season 1. Filming reportedly wrapped in August, and post-production is said to be well underway.
The complication lies with Cho Jin Woong, who plays detective Lee Jae Han, a central figure whose role is structurally and narratively essential to the series. Following his retirement announcement, questions have emerged over whether the drama can be released as planned, as well as potential penalty clauses.
Industry insiders note that if a lead actor’s controversy significantly impacts a project, contractual penalties may apply. At the same time, others point out that the production team may still opt to release the already completed series.
Meanwhile, Lee Je Hoon is currently appearing in SBS’s Friday-Saturday drama Taxi Driver 3. Whether Signal 2 will ultimately reach viewers—and how Cho Jin Woong’s decision will continue to ripple through the industry—remains to be seen.
>> Cho Jin Woong Could Face Nearly $6.8 Million Penalty After Juvenile Crime Scandal
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