Following reports regarding Jung Joon Young’s alleged involvement in the KakaoTalk chats and sharing sex videos, on March 12, 2019, Jung shared his official apology and announced he will depart the entertainment industry.
In his letter, Jung admitted to his crimes. He writes,
I write to you in shame and guilt.
I, Jung Joon Young, once again realized the seriousness of this situation after returning to Korea on March 12. Although it’s already late, I apologize through this letter to all the people who showed an interest in me and gave me a second chance.
Regarding what is being said in relation to me, I admit to all my crimes. I filmed women without their consent and shared it in a social media chatroom, and while I did so I didn’t feel a great sense of guilt.
As a public figure, it was an unethical act worthy of criticism, and such a thoughtless action.
More than anything, I kneel and apologize to the women who appear in the videos who have learned of this hideous truth as the incident has come to light, and to the many people who must be angry at the situation over which they cannot contain their disappointment and astonishment.
I am withdrawing from all the programs that I was appearing on, and I will suspend all activities in the entertainment industry. I will now set down all my activities as a public figure that are not self-reflection, and I will reflect for the rest of my life on my immoral and illegal actions related to the crimes.
More than anyone else, I apologize to the women who have experienced great suffering due to my actions, to the many people who must feel anger even more so than disappointment, and to the many people who made me into a public figure and cherished me.
I will sincerely take part without any falsehoods in the investigations that will begin on the morning of March 14, and I will accept punishment for my actions.
I once again deeply apologize. I am sorry.
This is the second apology Jung has released in relation to releasing sexually explicit videos. In 2016, he was accused and later acquitted of filming and sharing sex videos with his then-girlfriend.
Jung will be questioned by the police March 14, 2019. Seungri is also expected to be questioned the same day.
All parties are considered innocent until proven guilty.
— Olivia Murray
Related: “Lawyers Discuss Potential Punishments for Jung Joon Young If Found Guilty Of Sharing Hidden Camera Footage”, “TIMELINE: From Burning Sun Controversy to Seungri’s Retirement”
