What Happened to Choi Jungwon?
Former K-pop idol turned actor Choi Jungwon can finally breathe a little easier. On June 19, the Seoul High Court ruled that the actor did not engage in an affair with a married woman, overturning a previous verdict that had catapulted him into scandal headlines.
From Rumor to Redemption
The allegations date back to late 2022, when the husband of a woman identified as B, later known to be in Choi’s social circle, accused the two of having an inappropriate relationship. Choi denied it at the time, calling her a “local acquaintance.”
In the original case, the court claimed the relationship went beyond friendly terms and placed blame on B for the breakdown of her marriage. However, after a detailed review, the appeals court ruled otherwise, citing a pattern of intimidating behavior from the husband, rather than infidelity, as the root cause of the marital split.
The Court’s Take
In the ruling, the judge stated that there wasn’t enough evidence to conclude Choi and B violated marital fidelity. Instead, it found that the husband’s oppressive behavior played a key role in the marriage falling apart.
“It’s hard to recognize that the two had an affair or that their relationship directly led to divorce,” read the decision. “Rather, the conflict escalated due to the husband’s constant pressure and overbearing actions.”
B Speaks Out
Through her attorney, B said she suffered deeply in the aftermath of the first ruling. “After being labeled a ‘homewrecker’ by society, she faced immense personal hardship, including severe health issues,” the lawyer explained. He also emphasized that since the Supreme Court rarely reexamines facts, the latest ruling is likely to be the practical final word.
Why This Case Caught So Much Attention
Choi Jungwon isn’t just any celebrity. He debuted in 2000 as part of the popular K-pop duo UN (United N-Generation) before shifting into acting in 2006. That transition helped him stay visible in Korean entertainment, which made the scandal all the more headline-worthy.
This isn’t the first time he’s made waves. Choi was previously investigated in a separate stalking case, but no charges were filed. In this affair case, he and B also filed libel and defamation countersuits, which the police dropped due to lack of evidence.
Final Curtain Call?
While the gossip mill was in overdrive for months, the court’s decision brings some closure. The ruling not only relieves Choi but may help B recover a sliver of her reputation. Whether the public forgets—or forgives—is another matter entirely.
