2024 Korean Film Industry Scandals: Top Stars Ranked for ‘Worst Behaviors’

The identity of the top star crowned with the dishonorable title of "Worst Behavior of 2024" has drawn widespread attention in the Korean film industry.

The controversial title went to actor Jung Woo-sung. According to a survey conducted by Sports Kyunghyang among 51 film journalists as part of the 8th Raspberry Film Awards, Jung Woo-sung received 22 votes, securing the top spot.

Journalists cited several scandals as key reasons for his selection, including allegations of having an illegitimate child with Moon Ga-bi and inappropriate DM exchanges with a civilian woman. His appearance at the 45th Blue Dragon Film Awards following these controversies, where some celebrities applauded him, was heavily criticized. Commentators described the event as "turning the Blue Dragon Awards into a funeral."

Those who voted for Jung Woo-sung remarked: "I didn’t realize he could stoop this low. Taking responsibility for the child is his duty, but rebuilding a tarnished 30-year reputation in just three days seems impossible." "It’s disheartening that, amid the struggles of the Korean film industry, his actions have further chilled public perceptions of filmmakers." "‘12.12: THE DAY’ was my favorite movie, but he ruined it. No more revisits for me."

Second place went to Youn Yuh-jung, who garnered 18 votes. Her attitude during press interviews for the film Dog Days became a point of contention. Journalists criticized her for allegedly blaming reporters for the death of the late Lee Sun-kyun, smoking during interviews, and using casual and dismissive language.

Jeon Do-yeon and the late Lee Sun-kyun tied for third place with four votes each. Jeon Do-yeon faced backlash for her attitude during an appearance on the variety show Pinggyego to promote her film Revolver. Her comment about host Yoo Jae-suk’s performance, saying, “It was extremely uncomfortable,” stirred controversy.

As for Lee Sun-kyun, journalists cited reasons such as: "While his death is tragic and deserves mourning, personal issues causing disruptions to productions remain problematic." "The excessive glorification of his passing risks distorting the narrative of its cause."

Notably, actors who weren’t official nominees also ranked high in the survey. Kwak Do-won received nine votes due to his drunk driving scandal, while Gong Yoo garnered four votes for past remarks regarding former President Park Chung-hee.

The survey, which covered commercial films released between December 2023 and November 30, 2024, allowed each participant to cast three votes per category, including "Worst Film," "Worst Acting," and "Worst Behavior." Concerns are growing over how such incidents of unprofessional behavior may harm the image of the Korean film industry as a whole.