Actor Um Tae-woong Makes Comeback After Nine-Year Hiatus

Actor Um Tae-woong, who had been inactive for nine years due to a prostitution scandal, is set to return to the small screen. His wife, Yoon Hye-jin, announced on her personal account that Um will star in the drama 'I Kill You,' which is directed by Yoo Ha in his first directorial venture for television. The drama has been invited to the 29th Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival.

Yoon expressed her gratitude, reflecting on the long wait for this moment, saying, "I have watched him quietly gather his thoughts during this time, wondering if such a day would ever come. After more than ten years of waiting, I am sincerely thankful for this miraculous moment."

She also noted that the screening date of July 9 coincides with her mother's birthday, adding a personal touch to the announcement. "It may just be a coincidence, but I can't shake the feeling that my mom is watching over us. My brother (Um Tae-woong) filmed 'I Kill You' two years ago, and now it has been adapted into a film version for the festival."

While many fans are excited about Um's return, there are still concerns and criticisms regarding his past controversies. Um Tae-woong married former principal dancer of the National Ballet of Korea, Yoon Hye-jin, in 2013, and they have a daughter named Ji-on. He gained popularity for his affectionate portrayal of a devoted father on the KBS2 variety show 'The Return of Superman.'

The controversy arose in 2016 when Um was accused of sexual assault after visiting a massage parlor in Bundang, Seongnam. However, it was revealed during the police investigation that the accuser, who was in custody for fraud, had conspired with the parlor owner to extort money from Um. The sexual assault charges were dismissed, but Um was found guilty of engaging in prostitution and received a fine of 1 million won.

The scandal shocked fans who had viewed Um as a loving husband and caring father. He publicly apologized, expressing his remorse for disappointing his family and fans, stating, "I am truly sorry for the disappointment and worry I have caused. I feel the most sorry for my family, who have been hurt the most. I will do my best to heal the wounds I have caused, no matter how long it takes. I will reflect on my wrong actions."

Following the incident, Um took a break from all activities to reflect. His wife, Yoon Hye-jin, defended him during this time, stating in a 2020 live broadcast that she believed he had sufficiently reflected on his actions and asked others to refrain from judgment.

After nine years of self-reflection and support from Yoon, Um Tae-woong is set to make his public comeback with 'I Kill You,' which will premiere in July. Fans are eager to see if he can regain his status as a prominent actor after such a long absence.