Jang Dong-Joo’s Agency Responds to Shocking Retirement Announcement, Reveals Future Plans With Actor

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Korean actor Jang Dong-Joo, known for dramas such as School 2017, My Strange Hero, and No Tail To Tell, announced his sudden retirement from acting a few days ago, leaving fans stunned. In an emotional social media post, the 31-year-old actor revealed that years of personal hardships, online hacking incidents, and financial difficulties led him to step away from the entertainment industry. Looking back on his career, he expressed his gratitude to all the fans who have supported him on his journey. Following the announcement, his agency issued an official statement responding to his decision and providing clarity on his professional future.

Jang Dong-Joo's agency on actor's decision

On May 17, Jang Dong Ju’s agency, Management W, clarified that the actor’s retirement announcement was made solely by him, without any prior discussion or consultation with the agency. The company expressed regret over this sudden news and apologized to fans and members of the entertainment industry for the concern it caused.The agency stated, "matter decided unilaterally by the actor himself without any prior discussion or consultation with our agency." They described the actor’s decision as highly irresponsible, noting that the resulting confusion and damages were his responsibility. The company also said that it is taking the matter seriously and is working with affected partners to resolve the issues.

Finally, the agency indicated that the trust between the agency and Jang Dong Ju had effectively broken down and that they would carefully review the status of his exclusive contract going forward adding, "We have judged that the relationship of trust with No Tail To Tell actor Jang Dong Ju has effectively reached an irrecoverable state."

Jang Dong-Joo abruptly retires amid financial dispute

Allkpop mentioned that Jang Dong-Joo visited an adult entertainment venue in Banpo-dong, Seoul, where he reportedly accumulated a bill of approximately 3 million KRW (around $2,200). He claimed that an acquaintance would settle the payment and was issued an additional 10 million KRW in store credit. When no payment was made by 3 a.m. on May 15, the club contacted authorities.

A source further revealed that Dong-Joo was allowed to leave after promising to pay the total 13 million KRW by 6 p.m. the following day. Soon after, he shared the news of his retirement, stating that he would "lay down his life" as actor Jang Dong-Joo, while reflecting on his career’s cherished moments. The actor has not publicly commented on the allegations of unpaid bills and has since deleted all content related to his acting career from his Instagram account.