Film director Jeong Ji-young, who helmed My Name, opened up about the shocking moment he learned that actor Cho Jin-woong was retiring.
During a My Name interview held in Samcheong-dong, Seoul, on the 14th, Jeong mentioned his former collaborator Cho. The two previously worked together on the 2019 film Black Money.
Jeong said, "I was truly surprised when I saw the reports about Cho Jin-woong," adding, "I thought he might choose a period of self-reflection or a brief break, but I never imagined he would decide to retire so quickly." He continued, "I reached out to at least meet for a meal, but I was told, 'It's difficult right now,'" noting, "It seemed he was under pressure to avoid showing himself in public at all."
In December last year, Cho became the center of controversy after reports surfaced about incidents from his school days. As additional rumors about his private life followed, he announced he would "accept all criticism" and declared both a halt to activities and retirement. Although his agency pushed back against some allegations, public backlash did not die down easily.
Since retiring, Cho has completely halted official activities. He has reportedly cut off most contact with the entertainment industry, and growing speculation about an overseas stay has kept public interest high. In particular, unverified sightings claiming he was in Malaysia further fueled curiosity about his whereabouts.
Meanwhile, My Name is a mystery drama set against the Jeju April 3 Incident, unraveling a family story and the secrets behind a name. The film opens today (the 15th).