Jung Dong-won Agency Apologizes for Underage DUI Incident and Blackmail

The agency of singer Jung Dong-won, Showplay Entertainment, has issued a public apology regarding an incident involving his unlicensed driving as a minor and subsequent blackmail.

On the 11th, the agency stated, "We bow our heads and apologize for the recent unpleasant incident involving our artist Jung Dong-won." They explained that last year, when Jung Dong-won was 16 years old, an acquaintance identified as 'A' illicitly accessed his personal photos after taking his phone, and subsequently threatened him with footage of his unlicensed driving.

According to the agency, Jung Dong-won practiced driving for about 10 minutes on a mountain road near his home in Hadong, and a passenger filmed the act. The blackmailers demanded over 200 million won as hush money, but Jung Dong-won refused and instead reported them to the police, prepared to face legal consequences. The blackmailers are reportedly currently detained and on trial.

Jung Dong-won deeply regrets and is reflecting on his actions of practicing driving without a license, the agency confirmed. Showplay Entertainment pledged to do their best in managing and educating their artists following this incident and promised to ensure such unfortunate events do not occur again. They concluded by reiterating their sincere apologies to fans and the public.

Born in 2007, Jung Dong-won gained public recognition after appearing on TV Chosun's 'Mister Trot' in 2019. Despite his young age, he garnered significant fan support for his exceptional vocal skills and stage presence. He is currently recognized as a rising trot star, actively engaged not only in singing but also in various entertainment programs.