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8 Korean stars ‘cancelled’ after scandals: Seo Ye-ji was dropped from K-drama Island, while Ji Soo left River When the Moon Rises – and may be sued for US$2.7 million

Seo Ye-ji, AOA’s Seolhyun and TVXQ’s Yunho were all dropped from projects following scandals. Photos: Netflix, FNC Entertainment, SM Entertainment
Seo Ye-ji, AOA’s Seolhyun and TVXQ’s Yunho were all dropped from projects following scandals. Photos: Netflix, FNC Entertainment, SM Entertainment

  • Vogue removed AOA’s Seolhyun’s interview from YouTube after the K-pop idol was accused of enabling bandmate Jimin’s bullying of ex-member Mina
  • Song Joong-ki was blamed for his divorce from Song Hye-kyo, while ex-BigBang member Seungri retired completely after the Burning Sun scandal

South Korea is notorious for expecting its idols to have spotless personal records. So when actors get involved in messy divorces, drunk driving, bullying or other scandals, it’s not unusual for the brands they endorsed to unceremoniously cut ties, or for TV shows they starred in to replace them. Even if the accusations aren’t proven, companies take drastic steps in pre-emptive damage control, quickly distancing themselves from any negative impressions.

There have been rumours that married celebrities get served “divorce clauses” in their acting series contracts, where they will supposedly pay a fine if they get divorced while the show is still airing.

Here’s a list of Korean celebrities who’ve been involved in scandals recently, and lost a brand, drama or film deal as a result …

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Seo Ye-ji

Seo Ye-ji’s reputation has been shaken by a number of scandals in recent weeks. Photo: @seoyeajiluv/Instagram.
Seo Ye-ji’s reputation has been shaken by a number of scandals in recent weeks. Photo: @seoyeajiluv/Instagram.
The It’s Okay Not to Be Okay actress’ reputation has been tarnished by a slew of scandals recently; she’s been accused of school bullying and staff abuse, among other controversies.
Box office sales for her most recent project Recalled, which Korean local cinemas this week, seem to be doing well – although Seo skipped out on a press conference for the film. However, Korea JoongAng Daily reports that Seo will be replaced in the new drama Island. She has also lost endorsement deals with companies like health and beauty brand Inner Flora, mask brand Aer, Korean cosmetic brand Luna and sunglasses label Rieti.

Ji Soo