The Korean broadcasting industry went through an exceptionally eventful year in 2025. From joyful news such as marriages and births that drew public celebration to heartbreaking deaths, divorces, and a string of allegations and scandals, the entertainment world remained in constant flux. Here are the seven biggest stories that dominated headlines and shaped public discourse throughout the year.
1. Kim Soo-hyun and Allegations Involving the Late Kim Sae-ron
The most explosive controversy erupted early in the year following the death of actress Kim Sae-ron. Her family alleged that actor Kim Soo-hyun had been in a romantic relationship with her during her minor years, claiming the relationship lasted six years. Kim Soo-hyun denied the accusation, stating the relationship began only after Kim Sae-ron became an adult. Both sides released evidence and counterclaims throughout the year. Kim Soo-hyun’s side filed defamation lawsuits, arguing that disclosed messages were fabricated, while the bereaved family countersued for child welfare law violations and false accusations. The dispute remains unresolved.
2. Baek Jong-won Halts Activities Amid Business Controversies
Chef and TV personality Baek Jong-won suspended his broadcasting activities in May after his company, The Born Korea, became entangled in multiple controversies, including alleged violations of origin labeling regulations and farmland laws. Although he stepped back from new appearances, previously filmed shows still aired, including MBC’s Chef of Antarctica and Netflix’s Culinary Class Wars Season 2. Both productions notably skipped pre-release press events, and Baek Jong-won was absent from a post-release press conference, reflecting the impact of negative public sentiment.
3. Cho Jin-woong’s Past Revealed and Sudden Retirement
Actor Cho Jin-woong shocked the industry when reports surfaced about a juvenile criminal record from his high school years, alongside additional allegations involving violence and drunk driving during his early career. Amid severe public backlash, Cho announced the suspension of all activities and declared his retirement, stating he would accept all criticism. His upcoming drama The Second Signal, scheduled for next year, was put on hold as tvN stated it would carefully consider the project’s future.
4. Farewell to Broadcasting Legends Lee Soon-jae and Jeon Yoo-sung
The latter half of the year was marked by deep sorrow with the passing of two towering figures in Korean entertainment. Veteran comedian Jeon Yoo-sung passed away in September at the age of 76 due to complications from pneumothorax. He was a pioneer of Korean comedy and a mentor to many younger comedians. In November, legendary actor Lee Soon-jae also passed away after a career spanning more than five decades. He was posthumously awarded the Gold Crown Order of Cultural Merit in recognition of his lifelong contributions.
5. A Wave of Late Marriages and High-Profile Divorces
2025 saw an unusual surge in marriage announcements. Longtime bachelors Kim Jong-kook and Yoon Jung-soo tied the knot, while Lee Sang-min and comedian Kim Jun-ho announced remarriages. Actor Byun Yo-han and Tiffany Young of Girls’ Generation began dating with marriage in mind, and Shin Min-ah and Kim Woo-bin married after a decade-long public relationship.
At the same time, divorce news also made headlines. Hong Jin-kyung announced an amicable divorce after 22 years of marriage. Lee Si-young revealed her divorce earlier in the year and later drew widespread attention by giving birth to her second child using frozen embryos without her ex-husband’s consent.
6. Lee Yi-kyung’s Personal Life Allegations and Program Exits
Actor Lee Yi-kyung became embroiled in controversy after an overseas netizen released explicit photos and messages allegedly exchanged with him. Although Lee denied the claims, ongoing changes in the accuser’s statements fueled public debate. He eventually stepped down from MBC’s Hangout with Yoo and was dropped as an MC for KBS2’s The Return of Superman. Further speculation arose after remarks suggesting tension with production staff, which his agency denied. He later temporarily withdrew from E Channel’s Brave Detectives Season 4 citing personal reasons.
7. Park Na-rae and the Ongoing “Injection Aunt” Controversy
Comedian Park Na-rae dominated year-end headlines following allegations of workplace abuse and claims that she received illegal medical procedures from an unlicensed individual known as the “Injection Aunt.” Lawsuits were filed by both sides, with Park countersuing her former managers for attempted extortion and embezzlement. As legal battles intensified, she withdrew from all ongoing programs, including I Live Alone, stating she would suspend broadcasting until the situation was fully resolved.
The controversy soon expanded beyond Park Na-rae, implicating multiple celebrities. Some admitted to receiving similar procedures and paused activities, while others released medical records or personal explanations to clarify their situations.
Sources: Naver
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