Actor Jo Byeong Kyu has lost his defamation lawsuit against a former classmate who accused him of school bullying. On November 2, Newsis reported that the Seoul Central District Court’s 37th Civil Division, led by Judge Lee Sang Won, ruled against Jo and his former agency HB Entertainment, dismissing their claim for over 4 billion KRW (3 million USD) in damages.
The court also ordered them to pay all legal costs. Jo’s side argued that the allegations caused severe damage to his career, resulting in millions in lost endorsement and television opportunities, and sought an additional 200 million KRW (150,000 USD) for emotional distress.
However, the court ruled there was insufficient evidence to prove the claims were false, noting that Mr. A’s deletion of his online post likely stemmed from fear of litigation rather than an admission of guilt. Testimonies from Jo’s acquaintances and former classmates, including those who studied abroad with him in New Zealand, were deemed unreliable due to their close relationships with the actor. Jo’s legal team has appealed the decision to the Seoul High Court.
A separate criminal defamation case against Mr. A has also been dismissed. The controversy first arose in February 2021 when Mr. A alleged that Jo bullied him in New Zealand, claiming he was forced to buy snacks, pay for karaoke sessions, and endure physical assaults. Jo, best known for Sky Castle and The Uncanny Counter, denied the accusations and is currently preparing for his film comeback in Finding Hidden Money this fall.
