On May 15, actor Jang Dong Joo shared a heartfelt message through his social media account, revealing his decision to step away from acting permanently.

“I have spent a long time living under the name of an actor and received so much love and support,” he wrote. “Every moment I laughed and cried in front of the camera became the brightest time of my life.”

He continued by expressing gratitude toward the directors, staff members, fellow actors, and especially fans who supported him throughout his career.

“Thanks to the fans who always stayed by my side, I was able to walk this path happily until the end,” he shared.

Jang Dong Joo then delivered the shocking announcement directly. “As of today, I will lay down my life as an actor,” he stated. “Even though I am leaving the stage, I will never forget the love you gave me. Thank you sincerely for loving actor Jang Dong Joo until now.”

The announcement comes after a difficult period that deeply affected the actor both emotionally and financially.

Jang Dong Joo previously disappeared from public view in October last year, raising concerns among fans and industry insiders. Later, in January, he revealed that he had become the victim of a phone hacking incident involving blackmail and threats tied to his private life.

At the time, the actor described the experience as “living through hell.”

He also shared heartbreaking details about the financial consequences of the ordeal. “My family even sold our house for me, but in the end we lost billions of won and were left buried in debt,” he confessed.

Jang Dong Joo debuted in 2012 through the stage play A Midsummer Night’s Dream and steadily built his acting career through appearances in various dramas and television projects.

Most recently, he greeted viewers through a drama that concluded in February 2026, marking what now appears to be his final screen appearance.

Following the news, many fans expressed sadness and sympathy online, sending messages of support while hoping the actor can find peace and recovery away from the spotlight.

Sources: Naver