TV personality Cho Sae-ho directly addressed the so-called “gang connection” rumors. He reiterated, “I have never received money, and I have never been involved in any business with them.”
The February 22 episode of the Netflix variety show “Screwballs 4: The Rival” followed the members battling for the main vocal spot. Cho Sae-ho hit the stage dressed as “ZO ZAZZ,” and the members brought up the recent controversy.
When Joo Woo-jae quipped, “Your singing improves when gigs dry up,” indirectly pointing to the rumors, Cho replied, “I’m all-in on this one thing,” brushing it off with a laugh. He added, “I’ve been spending time with my wife and picking up new hobbies. I talked with PD Park In-seok like eight days a week―so much that my wife almost got the wrong idea,” updating fans on how he’s been.
Cho then said, “I’m sorry for causing concern. I think I was careless about certain relationships,” and bowed his head. He explained, “He’s someone I met early in my career while hosting regional events and weddings. Even now, we occasionally check in and grab a meal―nothing more, nothing less.”
He drew a firm line: “I never took any money, and I was not involved financially or business-wise in any way.” He continued, “When the photos went public, I’m sure many people were shocked. Because you may have felt uncomfortable and disappointed, I decided it was right to step down from ‘2 Days & 1 Night’ and ‘You Quiz on the Block.’”
Joo Woo-jae clarified, “Appearing on ‘Screwballs’ isn’t a comeback. We shot this on the original schedule.” Cho agreed: “I don’t see this as a comeback. I’m still reflecting and will be more careful going forward. If I can fulfill my role in this space, I see that as part of my responsibility.”
Previously, Cho Sae-ho faced allegations online after a photo spread claiming he was pictured with a gang member. There were also claims he had promoted products or a store run by the group. While stressing there was “no financial compensation,” Cho stepped down from the variety shows “2 Days & 1 Night” and “You Quiz on the Block.”
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)