Squid Game actor O Yeong Su found guilty of sexual misconduct; to face a potential 0-8 months prison term

A startling revelation has emerged from the South Korean entertainment industry as actor O Yeong Su faces the repercussions of sexual misconduct allegations. Best known for his role as Oh Il Nam in the globally acclaimed series Squid Game, the 79-year-old actor has found himself embroiled in controversy following a recent legal verdict.

Initially catapulted to fame and even securing a Golden Globe win for his portrayal in Squid Game, O Yeong Su's reputation took a sharp downturn after a woman lodged a complaint against him in December 2021. Denying the charges of indecent assault leveled against him, the actor's public image suffered further blows as investigations were reignited, leading to the removal of all advertisements featuring him.

On March 15, 2024, the Suwon District Court's Seongnam branch delivered its verdict, convicting O Yeong Su on grounds of sexual misconduct. The case hinged on accusations dating back to 2017, wherein the actor was alleged to have inappropriately touched and kissed a woman in Daegu. As a consequence, O Yeong Su has been mandated to undergo a 40-hour sexual violence rehabilitation program, in addition to facing a potential prison term ranging from zero to eight months, along with a two-year probation period.

Facing charges of sexual harassment from 2017, O Yeong Su has been afforded a week's window to contest the verdict. Throughout the trial proceedings, the actor was observed maintaining a low profile. Following the court's ruling, O Yeong Su quietly exited the premises with the intention of filing an appeal.

The ramifications of the case have reverberated across O Yeong Su's professional engagements, resulting in his exclusion from future casting opportunities and even prompting the removal of his scenes from an upcoming South Korean film. 

As O Yeong Su's association with Squid Game comes to an end amidst controversy, the acclaimed series finds itself ensnared in further complications due to misconduct allegations against certain staff members. Despite the tumultuous developments, the Emmy-winning show's sequel remains poised for release on Netflix in 2024.