Rumors on Social Media Escalate
Agency States: "Completely Groundless"
Comedian-turned-broadcaster Jo Seho has been caught up in rumors of having close ties with an individual suspected of being a member of an organized crime group. In response, his agency has issued an official statement denying the allegations as "completely groundless" and is working to address the situation.
Rumors Spread on Social Media of Alleged Gang Ties
On November 29, a post appeared on Instagram alleging that Jo Seho was close to a person, referred to as Mr. A, who is believed to be a key figure in a local organized crime group. The author claimed, "Jo Seho frequently visits a franchise actually owned by Mr. A," and raised suspicions that "he may have received expensive gifts and even promoted the business."
The author also posted photos showing Jo Seho with his arm around Mr. A, singing together, and posing in front of the franchise store. Along with raising several suspicions about Mr. A, the author demanded an explanation, asking, "Should a national comedian maintain such a relationship?"
Jo Seho’s Agency: "Completely Groundless... Will Take Legal Action Against Spreading False Information"
On December 5, Jo Seho’s agency, A2Z Entertainment, stated, "The claims currently spreading on social media are completely untrue," and clarified, "The individual in question is simply an acquaintance." The agency further asserted, "The claim that he received gifts is entirely baseless," and added, "There has been excessive speculation simply because of their acquaintance."
The agency also announced, "We are actively considering both criminal and civil legal action against the author for defamation by spreading false information and obstruction of business," and emphasized, "To ensure our artist’s activities are not hindered by the reckless spread of false claims, we will respond strictly and without leniency to groundless slander, malicious posts, and the indiscriminate dissemination of false information and rumors."
Jo Seho began his broadcasting career as part of the sixth class of SBS comedians in 2001 and is currently active on programs such as KBS 2TV’s "2 Days & 1 Night Season 4," tvN’s "You Quiz on the Block," and Netflix’s "Doraiver Season 3: Doraiver Dismantling Show," among others.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
