A growing number of Korean celebrities previously embroiled in scandals ranging from power abuse to public misconduct are making their way back onto screens. While some of these returns are met with applause or cautious acceptance, others draw criticism for seemingly bypassing the processes of accountability and genuine remorse.
No:ze’s Return After Sponsorship Controversy
Dancer No:ze, who rose to stardom through Mnet’s Street Woman Fighter, halted her activities in 2022 after being accused of violating sponsorship obligations. Reports indicated that she accepted significant advertising fees but failed to post agreed-upon content, even deleting some posts without notice.
Despite issuing a public apology and going on a year-long hiatus, No:ze returned to television in January 2025 through Mnet’s World Street Woman Fighter. Her reappearance sparked debate over whether her break and apology were sufficient to restore trust.
Jennie of BLACKPINK and the Indoor Smoking Incident
Jennie, a member of global sensation BLACKPINK, came under fire in July 2024 when a vlog captured her using an e-cigarette indoors during a hair and makeup session, exhaling smoke near a staff member. The incident quickly evolved into a broader debate about professionalism and respect for others in work environments.
Jennie‘s agency, Odd Atelier, issued an apology, acknowledging the inappropriateness of her actions and assuring the public of her regret. Still, the controversy revived earlier allegations, most notably a 2019 claim by comedian Jung Yong-guk, who alleged Jennie had illegally parked and made excessive demands at his restaurant, although her then-agency YG Entertainment declined to comment.
Kang Hyung-wook Cleared and Returning to TV
In contrast, renowned dog trainer Kang Hyung-wook is returning to television with a clean slate. After being accused in May 2024 of workplace misconduct by a former employee, Kang faced public scrutiny and stepped away from ongoing shows. Allegations included unauthorized access to staff messages and sharing private content.
However, police later found no evidence of criminal wrongdoing and dropped the case. Now, nearly a year later, Kang is set to appear in Channel A’s new reality show Time Between Dog and Wolf (tentative title), where he’ll address pet behavior issues while also examining owner responsibilities, a move some see as a thoughtful step back into the spotlight.
While each case differs, a shared theme is emerging: controversial figures return not necessarily through public forgiveness but via broadcaster decisions. As one industry insider put it, “Criticism comes from the public, but opportunity is granted by the networks.”
In the absence of a standardized “reflection period,” many viewers are left questioning the sincerity of these comebacks. Are they based on earned trust—or simply a strategic recalibration for continued relevance?