- Actor O Yeong-Su, famous for his role in Squid Game, has been sentenced to one year in prison for indecent assault.
- The charges stem from two incidents in 2017, where he allegedly molested a woman.
- The victim expressed long-term emotional distress, while O Yeong-su denied the accusations.
O Yeong-Su, known globally for his role as Player 001 in Squid Game, has been convicted of indecent assault and sentenced to one year in prison. The charges relate to an alleged incident in 2017. The 80-year-old actor allegedly forcibly hugged and kissed a woman without consent.
Initially sentenced to probation, his sentence was increased after the prosecution argued that his actions caused significant emotional harm to the victim. Prosecutors also criticized O Yeong-Su for not offering a sincere apology. His defense team countered that the victim’s testimony lacked coherence.
Squid Game Actor O Yeong-Su Faces One-Year Prison Sentence for Sexual Assault Charges
The case has drawn widespread attention due to O Yeong-Su’s fame following his breakout role in the global hit Squid Game. His legal team argued that the accusations were part of a broader media spectacle linked to his newfound celebrity status.
Despite denying the charges, O Yeong-Su expressed regret in court. He acknowledged that his actions may have hurt the victim, but maintained that he did not commit assault. The final appeal verdict will be delivered in June. The case has sparked conversations on accountability and power dynamics within the entertainment industry.
O Yeong-Su’s legal team disputed the charges, claiming that the victim’s testimony lacked clarity and consistency. They also suggested that the timing of the accusations was influenced by O Yeong-Su’s rising fame due to Squid Game. His defense argued that the actor’s formal responses to the allegations were intended to avoid controversy, not to acknowledge any wrongdoing.
In the court hearing, O Yeong-Su expressed regret for the harm caused but maintained his innocence. He stated that his 80 years of life had “collapsed” in an instant. He just wanted to return to his life. The final ruling on his appeal will be made in June 2025. The case is expected to have significant ramifications for how the entertainment industry handles sexual assault allegations.
The case against O Yeong-Su underscores the need for accountability within the entertainment industry, particularly for those in positions of power. This is especially important as the legal process continues to unfold.
“I did it with the heart of a father” reflects O Yeong-Su’s controversial response to the accusations. Critics say this further harmed the victim instead of offering a sincere apology.
