Ok Joo-hyun Opens Up About 'Ok-Jang-Pan' Controversy and Rift with Lee Ji-eun

Musical theater star Ok Joo-hyun candidly addressed the casting controversy surrounding the musical 'Elizabeth', infamously dubbed the 'Ok-Jang-Pan incident', during her appearance on Channel A's 'Four Tops'.

On the broadcast aired on the 8th, Ok Joo-hyun showcased her dedication to self-care by preparing healthy meals for her close friends, revealing her favorite low-aging items such as juniper circulation cream and aromatherapy oils.

Reflecting on her extensive career since her musical debut, Ok Joo-hyun expressed gratitude for the unwavering support from her fans over the years. "I never aimed to be number one, nor did I plant flags for it," she shared. "Thanks to the fans who have supported me for 20 years, I never imagined I would last this long."

When asked about moments of doubt regarding her capabilities, particularly in her early musical endeavors, Ok Joo-hyun directly referenced the 'Elizabeth' casting controversy from three years prior. "Are you referring to that incident?" she asked, acknowledging the 'Ok-Jang-Pan incident', which erupted in June 2022 concerning the casting for the musical's 10th anniversary production, with suspicions arising that Ok Joo-hyun influenced the selection.

This controversy was further fueled when actor Kim Ho-young posted a photo of an 'Ok-Jang-Pan' (a traditional Korean floor mat) on his social media with the caption, "Asari-pan is an old story. Now it's Ok-Jang-Pan." In response, Ok Joo-hyun had previously stated on her Instagram that she was preparing to sue those who instigated baseless speculation and subsequent media reports.

Ok Joo-hyun explained her decision to cut contact with fellow musical actress Lee Ji-eun following the incident: "We didn't contact each other for each other's sake, because things weren't okay. Because I knew it wasn't okay." She clarified, "It was me teaching her as a senior, so that actress Lee Ji-eun could learn and perform well. It wasn't about preparing to debut in a specific production; we studied many works together, not just 'Elizabeth'."

Lee Ji-eun echoed these sentiments, stating, "She was such a strong number one in the role of Elizabeth." She added, "I became the focus of an issue that shouldn't have escalated due to personal friendships or lessons." Lee Ji-eun recalled receiving messages of concern rather than congratulations after her casting, with even an old flame reaching out. "I told them I was fine and to please convey that to Joo-hyun unnie," she said, tearfully recounting how she and Ok Joo-hyun finally embraced and cried together after the performance concluded.

Singer Tei also chimed in, "The entertainment industry can feel lonely all of a sudden. I sent Joo-hyun unnie a message of support, hoping no one around her would be in pain." He added, "I gained faith that someone who has honed their skills for a long time and earned their stage through talent wouldn't be easily shaken."

Ok Joo-hyun, a former member of the iconic K-pop group Fin.K.L., has established herself as a powerhouse musical actress. She is renowned for her powerful vocals and captivating stage presence, having starred in numerous acclaimed productions like 'Elisabeth', 'Rebecca', and 'Wicked'. Her consistent performances have earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.