More Korean celebrities are reportedly turning to TikTok Live as a new platform for communication with fans, following growing attention surrounding rumors of actor Park Si Hoo earning massive profits through livestream broadcasts.

Recently, actor Jang Dong Joo who shocked fans by suddenly announcing his retirement and producer MC Mong both appeared on TikTok Live broadcasts, drawing major public attention.

TikTok Live is a livestream feature available on the Chinese short-form video platform TikTok, allowing creators and viewers to communicate freely through comments, joint broadcasts, and real-time interaction. In recent months, an increasing number of Korean celebrities have reportedly chosen the platform to connect directly with fans.

Among them, Park Si Hoo became one of the most talked-about examples. Although he met audiences through the movie “Choir of God” last year, the actor has largely remained absent from television dramas since 2020, aside from his appearance on the 2024 variety program “With Father and Me.”

Fans instead began receiving updates about Park Si Hoo through TikTok Live broadcasts. Rumors even circulated claiming that the actor earned as much as 500 million KRW through livestream activities, especially after he reportedly ranked No. 1 on Korean TikTok Live rankings due to his active streaming schedule.

Park Si Hoo is not the only celebrity embracing the platform. Actor Lim Ju Hwan and Sechs Kies member Jang Su Won have also reportedly been meeting fans and generating income through TikTok Live during breaks from television and music projects.

Former LABOUM member Yulhee has likewise been balancing acting work with regular TikTok Live broadcasts and recently celebrated her 100th day on the platform.

Last month, actress Han Chae Young also attracted attention after hosting her first TikTok Live broadcast, where viewers discussed her noticeably changed appearance. MC Mong later joined the livestream through a collaborative broadcast, further fueling public interest.

MC Mong once again drew attention after announcing a personal TikTok Live broadcast on May 18. Before going live, he stated, “I will talk about past events and everything related to me.”

During the broadcast, MC Mong claimed that rumors involving prostitution, affairs, and gambling allegations against him originated from Cha Jun Young, the uncle of One Hundred chairwoman Cha Ga Won, who was reportedly removed from executive producer duties last year.

He additionally alleged that Cha Jun Young was operating an illegal gambling group and mentioned several names during the livestream, including singer Kim Min Jong. MC Mong also referenced the names of artists who have recently been leaving One Hundred.

A day before MC Mong’s broadcast, on May 17, Jang Dong Joo personally addressed fans through TikTok Live after unexpectedly announcing his retirement from the entertainment industry.

The actor explained, “I don’t want the current situation to cause damage to other actors or staff members. Acting isn’t the only profession in the world. If I ever get another chance to return someday, I’ll try again.”

Jang Dong Joo further revealed that although he had already repaid 3 billion KRW in debt, he still owed approximately 800 million KRW. He added, “Right now isn’t the right time. I think it’s better to focus on repaying my debt,” while announcing plans to continue communicating with fans daily through TikTok Live.

As more celebrities continue joining TikTok Live, the platform is rapidly evolving into a new space for Korean stars to share updates, respond to controversies, and reconnect with audiences in real time. Attention is now focused on which celebrity may be the next to join the growing trend.

Sources: Daum