As the backlash grows over actor Jang Dong-joo’s abrupt retirement announcement, his agency has taken a hardline stance with an official statement.
On the 17th, agency Management W said, "We apologize for causing concern to fans and industry officials with the sudden news," while stressing that Jang Dong-joo’s retirement post was a one-sided decision that was never shared in advance. The agency added, "We only became aware of the matter after it was posted," expressing clear bewilderment.
The company further condemned his choice as "extremely irresponsible behavior that betrayed the responsibility and trust expected of an actor under an active contract," drawing a firm line that all confusion arising from the situation rests solely with the actor. Management W said it is working to address damages with partner companies and carefully reviewing next steps, including whether to maintain the exclusive contract.
Jang Dong-joo suddenly announced his retirement from the entertainment industry via Instagram on the 15th—roughly three months after signing an exclusive contract with the agency—sending shockwaves through the industry.
Explaining the reason, Jang claimed he suffered massive financial losses due to a mobile phone hacking incident and, in the process, took on debt in the tens of billions of won. He said that while he has repaid a substantial portion of about 4 billion won, several hundred million won still remains, adding, "With constant pressure from creditors, I decided that normal acting activities would be impossible."
Jang had already stirred controversy multiple times, including a brief disappearance scare and a public account of hacking damages, amplifying the impact of this retirement declaration.
The issue has now escalated beyond a simple retirement post into a conflict over trust between the actor and his agency. All eyes are on what both sides decide next—and how Jang Dong-joo’s future will unfold.