Yeong-su**, the 79-year-old actor who gained international acclaim for his role in the hit Netflix series “Squid Game,” has been found *guilty of sexual harassment*. The verdict was delivered by the *Suwon District Court* at its location in Seongnam, a suburb southeast of Seoul.
The Allegations
O Yeong-su faced accusations related to two incidents that occurred in 2017. According to media reports, he had “inappropriately touched” a fellow actress during a theater tour. The public prosecutor had initially demanded a prison sentence of one year for the veteran actor.
The Verdict
The court sentenced O Yeong-su to eight months in prison, with a probation period of two years. Additionally, he is required to participate in a sexual violence treatment program for a total of 40 hours. The actor, who vehemently denied the allegations, expressed his intention to appeal the verdict as he left the courthouse.
A Golden Globe Winner
O Yeong-su’s career trajectory took a dramatic turn after his portrayal of the older character Oh II-nam in “Squid Game.” Notably, he became the first South Korean actor to win a Golden Globe in the Best Supporting Actor category for his television performance in 2022. His nuanced portrayal of the enigmatic “Player 001” captivated audiences worldwide.
Fallout and Impact
The sexual harassment accusation has already left a mark on O Yeong-su’s career. The South Korean Ministry of Culture decided to halt the broadcast of a government commercial featuring the actor due to the allegations. Furthermore, in the film “About Family” by director Woo-seok Yang, all scenes involving O Yeong-su were removed and re-shot with a different actor.
Womenlink’s Response
Womenlink, a prominent Korean women’s rights organization, welcomed the verdict and called on O Yeong-su to apologize to the victim. They highlighted the insidious nature of sexualized violence, often disguised as “favor” and “friendship.”
As the entertainment industry grapples with the aftermath of this high-profile case, questions arise about the responsibility of artists and the impact of their actions. O Yeong-su’s fall from grace serves as a stark reminder that no one is above the law, regardless of their accolades or fame.
The legacy of “Squid Game” will forever be intertwined with this legal battle, casting a shadow over the show’s success. For now, O Yeong-su faces the consequences of his actions, and the world watches as justice unfolds.
