In a lengthy statement posted to his social media on Dec. 9, Cho apologized to fans, writing that he was “truly sorry for disappointing so many people.” He added that while he worried a point-by-point rebuttal might feel like excuses, he felt compelled to share his perspective out of respect for the support he’s received over the years.
Explaining how he crossed paths with the man at the center of the controversy, Cho said that years of traveling to local events introduced him to many new people. “As someone in the public eye, I should have been far more careful about the relationships around me,” he wrote. “When I was younger, I didn’t always handle every connection with the maturity it required, and I deeply regret that.”
Still, Cho was firm in his denial: “Contrary to the concerns out there, the allegations stemming from that acquaintance are not true at all,” he said. He acknowledged that photos circulating online left many feeling let down, adding, “I know how it looked, and I’m sorry for causing discomfort when I should be delivering laughter and comfort.”
Earlier that morning, Jo’s agency announced he would exit "You Quiz on the Block" and "2 Days & 1 Night." Cho said he took a hard look at whether staying on would burden his shows. “'You Quiz on the Block' is about listening and empathizing with guests. In my current state, I don’t believe I can fulfill that role,” he said. As for '2 Days & 1 Night,' he called it a flagship KBS variety program and said he didn’t want to place unnecessary weight on the series or its team. He conveyed his decision to step down from both shows to the producers, apologizing to the cast, staff, and viewers.
Cho, who married last year, also said he plans to take necessary steps to correct what he called falsehoods for the sake of his family. “I will be stricter about the people around me and my actions so that I don’t let you down again,” he wrote, promising to return “more mature” after serious reflection.
The controversy erupted after a whistleblower identified only as “A” claimed on social media that Cho was close with a man referred to as Mr. Choi―described as a powerful local figure tied to organized crime who allegedly operates an illegal gambling site. “A” also alleged Cho accepted pricey gifts and promoted Choi’s franchise business, and posted a friendly photo of the two taken in what appeared to be a nightlife venue.
Cho’s side dismissed those claims as unfounded speculation, but public backlash escalated, with viewer petitions calling for his removal from his shows. Cho ultimately opted to leave his programs while vowing to clear up the allegations.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)