The highly anticipated tvN drama Signal 2, which had already become uncertain due to Cho Jin-woong’s sudden exit from the entertainment industry, is now facing another possible blow: its production support budget could be recovered or reduced.
Is Signal 2 In Trouble?
According to the report, the Korea Creative Content Agency, also known as KOCCA, mentioned on May 21 that there is a possibility of budget recovery regarding Signal 2. A related official stated, “Budget execution for Signal 2 has already been carried out. The result evaluation is scheduled for May, but there may be variables. Depending on the evaluation result, there is a possibility of recovery or reduction.”
The issue is especially serious because KOCCA’s Content Support Project Management Rules state that if a project fails its result evaluation, the full amount of support money and the interest generated must be recovered within 30 days without exception.
Signal 2 had previously been selected for KOCCA’s 2025 OTT-specialized content production support project in the drama category. The project is designed to support high-quality broadcast video content based on OTT platforms and help secure domestic content IP.
A total budget of 7.5 billion won was used for the program, with 7 works selected overall. The drama category was highly competitive, with 89 projects submitted. Along with Signal 2, other selected works included 21st Century Grand Prince’s Wife, Personal Taxi, and Peach Blossoms Have Bloomed. The exact amount of support given to each project was not disclosed, but a long-form drama can receive up to 2 billion won. However, 21st Century Grand Prince’s Wife, another selected project, has also been caught in a historical distortion controversy, leading to calls for its support funds to be recovered as well.
Cho Jin-woong’s Retirement Created A Major Problem
Cho Jin-woong became the center of controversy last December after allegations surfaced that he had received a juvenile protective disposition and was sent to a juvenile detention center during high school over alleged car theft and special robbery-rape charges.
Following the controversy, Cho Jin-woong issued an official statement and apologized. “I apologize for disappointing people due to an unfortunate incident in the past,” he said. He then announced his retirement from acting, adding, “I humbly accept all criticism and will put an end to my path as an actor.”
The decision immediately affected Signal 2, where Cho Jin-woong was one of the lead actors. The drama had reportedly already completed filming through pre-production, but the sudden retirement of a main cast member before broadcast created an unprecedented situation.
As a result, the drama has been unable to keep its promise to viewers, and its broadcast remains uncertain. For fans who have waited years for Signal 2, the situation is becoming increasingly frustrating. What was once expected to be one of tvN’s biggest comeback dramas is now facing both public controversy and financial risk.
Sources: 네이트 뉴스
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