In 2025, the South Korean entertainment industry saw a dramatic fall from grace for several top actors. Public opinion turned sharply negative against these celebrities, triggered by scandals ranging from personal betrayal to criminal accusations. Here are the 5 most hated Korean actors of 2025, whose controversies sparked outrage and reshaped their careers.
1. Jung Woo Sung
Once dubbed the “most desirable bachelor” of K-entertainment, Jung Woo Sung’s pristine image collapsed amid multiple personal scandals.
“The actor admitted to having a child out of wedlock with model Moon Gabi,” a revelation that split public opinion. Allegations of simultaneous relationships and an affair with a female colleague—who reportedly divorced after believing his marriage promises—only fueled the outrage.
Despite continuing his public appearances, many netizens declared they would boycott his future work, citing his “irresponsible love life” and “lack of integrity.”
2. Kim Soo Hyun
Kim Soo Hyun, long celebrated as a top Hallyu star, faced his darkest year after accusations linked him romantically to the late actress Kim Sae Ron during her underage years.
The explosive claims, first aired by Garo Sero Institute in March, caused immediate backlash. “Even though he held a press conference to deny involvement, the damage was done,” noted fans. Advertisers dropped him, and major film projects were suspended. From “ratings guarantee” to reputational liability, Kim’s fall was swift and brutal.
3. Cho Jin Woong
Cho Jin Woong was exposed by Dispatch on December 5 for a troubled past that included juvenile detention, assaulting colleagues, and drunk driving. While he admitted to some mistakes and denied sexual misconduct allegations, the public was less forgiving. “The collapse of his ‘national cop’ image jeopardized the future of Signal 2,” a highly anticipated drama sequel.
4. Yoon Ji On
Yoon Ji On’s career took a sharp downturn after he was caught drunk driving and accused of stealing a motorcycle—actions he claimed he couldn’t remember due to intoxication. The incident forced him to withdraw from the Channel A drama Positively Yours, which was already in production. As he had previously earned a “nice guy” image, the contrast made the scandal even more shocking to fans and colleagues alike.
5. Lee Jin Ho
Comedian and actor Lee Jin-ho rounded out the infamous list following his arrest for drunk driving while still embroiled in an illegal gambling controversy. After arguing with his girlfriend in Incheon, he drove nearly 100 km before being stopped by police. His 2.3 billion won debt and history of online gambling only worsened public sentiment. “Two major scandals in under five years left no room for sympathy,” wrote one angry netizen.
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