After the Fall: K-entertainment Scandal Stars Attempt Their Return. But Will They Be The Same?
- lewishooper1
- Apr 18
- 2 min read
Can these popular actors and K-pop idols return to their "glory days"? We delve deeper into the impact of cancel culture in South Korea on them and what it may mean for their futures.
What is cancel culture in Korea?
Korean drama "cancel culture" is a swift, powerful public reckoning. Scandals ignite online fury, leading to instant career freezes: endorsements vanish, dramas get axed, and future roles dry up. Forget slow fades; it's a digital guillotine fueled by high moral expectations, making comebacks a dramatic uphill battle in the unforgiving spotlight.
Which K-drama actors, after facing controversy and a break, are attempting a comeback?
Despite new roles in films and dramas, the return of actors Kwak Do Won, Bae Sung Woo, and Choi Seung Hyun (BigBang's T.O.P) – all previously embroiled in scandals involving drunk driving and drug use – has been met with a chilly reception from fans. This reflects persistent disappointment and criticism regarding the entertainment industry's perceived leniency towards actors with past wrongdoings, raising questions about ethical standards and the influence of public figures.
From The Wailing star to scandal headlines, Kwak Do Won's career hit pause after a 2022 DUI incident on Jeju Island. Now, the acclaimed actor is poised for a comeback with The Firefighters, a delayed film about the sacrifices of firefighters, which was originally scheduled to premiere in December 2024 but was finally released earlier this month.
Another Korean Actress Seo Ye Ji, the star of hits like It's Okay to Not Be Okay, vanished from the public eye after a whirlwind of scandals involving staff treatment, academic claims, bullying accusations, and controlling her then-boyfriend Kim Jung Hyun. Now, after her first TV appearance on Huh Young Man's Food Travel, all eyes are on her upcoming hosting gig on SNL Korea – a show notorious for its sharp and often uncomfortable takes on celebrity controversies.
Can celebrities really make it after being canceled?
South Korea has a strong online culture and a vocal public that holds celebrities to high moral standards. Once public opinion turns negative, it can be very difficult to reverse. However, public sentiment can also be fickle, and sometimes forgiveness is granted over time, especially if the actor shows sincere remorse and takes significant time for reflection.
Less Severe Offenses: Mistakes like minor controversies, misunderstandings, or less impactful personal issues have a higher chance of being forgiven relatively quickly. A sincere apology and a period of reflection can sometimes lead to a return within months or a year.
More Severe Offenses: Scandals involving illegal activities (like drug use or drunk driving), serious accusations (like bullying or abuse), or significant ethical breaches face much stronger and longer-lasting public backlash. Comebacks in these cases are significantly harder and can take years if they happen at all. Sexual offenses, in particular, often carry a very long or even permanent career impact.
Once canceled, always canceled? What's your take on celebrity comebacks?
Comments