Park Han-byul Breaks Down Over Husband’s “Burning Sun” Scandal, Apologizes on TV

On the March 25 episode of TV CHOSUN’s “With Father And Me” (tentative title), viewers were given a glimpse into the upcoming emotional appearance of actress Park Han-byul. The preview revealed a heartfelt conversation between Park and her father, who quietly supported her through the years following her husband’s highly publicized involvement in the “Burning Sun” scandal. This will be her first public broadcast appearance in six years.

Introducing herself with the words, “I’m appearing on TV for the first time in six years,” Park Han-byul did not shy away from addressing the controversy. She openly apologized, saying, “It was something to be deeply sorry about. I truly am sorry,” bowing her head in remorse.

Park last appeared on screen in the 2019 drama “Love in Sadness.” Her absence from the entertainment industry has lasted for nearly six years. Now, with a new exclusive contract signed with Chan Entertainment, she is preparing to return to the spotlight.

Explaining her prolonged hiatus, she said, “Because of my husband’s case, I felt a sense of responsibility as his wife, which led to the hiatus.” She added with painful honesty, “Each day felt like hell. I shut myself off from the world. I didn’t speak to anyone.”

Her father, who had remained quiet all these years, expressed how difficult it had been to witness her struggle in silence. “Six years may not sound like much, but it felt like emerging from a long, dark tunnel. I was afraid to ask my daughter too many questions because I didn’t want to hurt her,” he said.

He also shared his personal suffering, revealing symptoms of severe emotional distress: “I couldn’t sleep for days, had no appetite, and even alcohol didn’t affect me. At times, I thought about jumping from a high place.” Touched by her father’s vulnerability, Park Han-byul was unable to hold back her emotions and tearfully responded, “I just… feel so sorry.”

Park Han-byul married Yoo, former CEO of Yuri Holdings, in 2017. In 2019, Yoo’s name was linked to the explosive “Burning Sun Gate” scandal. He was eventually indicted alongside former BIGBANG member Seungri for arranging prostitution services for foreign investors during 2015–2016. Yoo was sentenced to one year and eight months in prison, suspended for three years.

At the time, Park Han-byul publicly declared her support for her husband, stating, “I feel a deep sense of responsibility for the entire controversy. No matter the outcome, I accept this ordeal as a part of guiding our family onto the right path. As a mother and a wife, I will strive to live a life I won’t be ashamed of.”

She also submitted a petition for leniency on his behalf. The letter, filed through Yoo’s legal representative, read: “My husband has no intention of fleeing or avoiding the situation. As his wife, I promise that he will continue to cooperate fully with the investigation while remaining out of custody.” The petition also highlighted his consistent attendance at over ten police interviews and emphasized his responsibilities as the father of their young child.

Now standing at a turning point in her life and career, Park Han-byul’s emotional return to television is not just a reflection of past hardships but a quiet declaration of resilience. As she attempts to rebuild her public image, her sincerity and vulnerability may become the foundation for a second act in the eyes of the public.