Jang Dong Ju, who abruptly retired from acting earlier this year while dealing with billions of won in debt, is beginning a new chapter as a businessman with plans to take his company public.
Jang told StarNews on September 21st that Woosun Group, which he leads, is developing a mid- to long-term growth strategy aimed at an eventual IPO.
Drawing on his experience in acting, entertainment, academies and agencies, Jang said the company is expanding into investment, arts and culture, real estate spaces and hospitality. Woosun Group is also seeking outside investment and considering M&A opportunities to grow its portfolio.
Jang is the son of Jang Myung Chun, chairman of World General Construction, who has run the construction company for decades. Jang reportedly learned about corporate management and organizational operations from his father while pursuing his acting career.
Jang began acting in 2012 and went on to appear in dramas including School 2017, My Strange Hero, Class of Lies and Trigger, as well as films such as Honest Candidate and Handsome Guys.
In May, however, he unexpectedly announced his retirement, saying he had accumulated about 4 billion won (approximately $2.8 million) in debt after becoming a victim of phone hacking and blackmail. He said he had already repaid more than 3 billion won but still owed around 800 million won.
Jang subsequently turned to online content creation, signing with livestreaming company Universe Label in July. His first livestream reportedly generated about 20 million won in viewer contributions, while he reached TikTok’s A1 League just three weeks after starting livestreams and won live matches against celebrity creators including actor Park Si Hoo and singer-producer MC Mong.
His TikTok livestreams have reportedly brought in an average of 30 million to 40 million won per month.
At the time, Jang said his priority was to repay his remaining debt. “Once I’ve fulfilled all my responsibilities, if I’m given the opportunity, I would also like to return someday as actor Jang Dong Ju,” he said.
>> Jang Dong Ju Shares Disturbing Video Following His Retirement Announcement
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