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

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,' directed by Yoo Ha, which 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 been silently supporting him through the tough times, wondering if this day would ever come. After more than a decade of uncertainty, I am truly 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’s being showcased at the festival," she shared.

While many fans are excited about Um's return, there are still concerns and criticisms regarding his past. 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 began in January 2016 when Um was accused of sexual assault after visiting a massage parlor in Bundang, Seongnam. Investigations revealed that the accuser, who was in custody for fraud, had conspired with the parlor owner to extort money from Um. Ultimately, he was acquitted of the assault charges but was fined for engaging in prostitution.

The allegations shocked fans who viewed Um as a loving husband and caring father. In response to the backlash, he publicly apologized, expressing remorse for the pain caused to his family and vowing to reflect on his actions.

Following the scandal, Um stepped back from the public eye to reflect on his actions. His wife, Yoon Hye-jin, defended him during this time, stating in a 2020 live broadcast that she believed he had sufficiently atoned for his mistakes and urged others to refrain from judgment.

Now, after nearly a decade of self-reflection and with the support of his wife, Um Tae-woong is ready to re-enter the entertainment industry with 'I Kill You,' set to premiere in July. Fans are eager to see if he can reclaim his status as a prominent actor after such a long absence.