On January 1, Jo Yoon Woo shared a handwritten-style message on his personal social media account, revealing that he has decided to step away from acting after 15 years in the industry as he prepares to begin a new chapter in his personal life.

In his post, Jo Yoon Woo wrote, “After a long period of consideration, I have met someone precious with whom I want to spend my life. In order to build our own simple and quiet daily life together, I have decided to close my 15-year career as an actor.”

Along with the announcement, he shared photos showing himself spending affectionate moments with his fiancée, drawing attention from fans who had been unaware of his relationship.

Jo Yoon Woo explained that the decision was not made lightly, noting that he debuted at the age of 21 and devoted himself solely to acting for more than a decade. “The 15 years I spent running forward with nothing but acting in mind were incredibly precious to me. After careful and lengthy thought, I am only now able to share this decision,” he wrote.

He also expressed his desire to focus on his future family, saying, “For the rest of my life, I want to draw a fun and meaningful future together with the person I want to protect for a lifetime for the first time since I was born.” He added that his partner has been both a lover and his closest friend for over four years, asking fans to continue supporting them as they begin married life.

Jo Yoon Woo made his acting debut in 2011 through tvN’s Cool Guys, Hot Ramen. He later appeared in dramas such as Cyrano; Dating Agency, Ugly Alert, and played a leading role in Band of Sisters in 2017. His most recent project was the 2023 ENA drama Not Others.

Following his announcement, fans expressed mixed reactions online, congratulating him on his marriage while also sharing their disappointment over his sudden retirement. Comments included messages of support, well-wishes for his happiness, and sentiments of regret at seeing him leave the industry.

Sources: 네이트 뉴스