On May 22, actor Jang Dong-joo uploaded a video to his personal social media account alongside a troubling caption that read, “I cut off my innocent pinky finger.”

In the post, the actor reflected on what he described as years of broken promises to himself and the people around him.

“I made countless promises to myself that I failed to keep,” he wrote. “There were also many promises I couldn’t keep to my family, friends, acquaintances, and colleagues. Lastly, there was a promise I made to my father while hooking pinkies that I also failed to keep.”

Jang Dong-joo continued by expressing deep regret toward his past actions, explaining that the act was symbolic of wanting to completely change his life.

“That pinky finger that made all those broken promises… I hated it for no reason and cut it off,” he wrote. “I’ll use this crisis as an opportunity to find my original self from two years ago. Wake up. This is the last chance. There’s nowhere lower to fall anymore.”

The graphic post quickly spread online, alarming fans and netizens due to the actor’s visibly unstable condition and the disturbing nature of the video.

Following growing concern, Jang Dong-joo later clarified that the act was not intended as self-harm or an extreme attempt to end his life.

“I sincerely apologize for uploading a video that harms my own body,” he explained. “The video was not meant to threaten anyone or represent an extreme attempt. I uploaded it to engrave in my brain a resolution about my wrong way of living.”

He added that he is currently receiving treatment and recovering with the help of his family.

The incident comes shortly after a series of troubling developments surrounding the actor over the past year. In November 2025, Jang Dong-joo previously caused concern after suddenly disappearing from public contact. He later signed with a new agency before abruptly terminating activities again shortly afterward.

Earlier this year, the actor also revealed that his family was forced to sell their home following damages caused by a hacking incident, further worrying fans about his mental and emotional condition.

In February, Management W announced that Jang Dong-joo had signed an exclusive contract with the company, signaling a fresh start for the actor. However, on May 15, he unexpectedly declared his retirement through social media without prior discussion with the agency.

In response, Management W released a strong statement criticizing the actor’s actions.

“The retirement announcement and all subsequent actions were carried out without any discussion with the company,” the agency stated. “This was an extremely irresponsible act committed while his exclusive contract remained valid, and all confusion and damages resulting from this situation are entirely his responsibility.”

As concern continues growing online, many fans are expressing hopes that Jang Dong-joo prioritizes his health and recovery during this difficult period.

Sources: 네이트 뉴스