Beyond the Scandal: Korean Stars Who Defied Cancel Culture

In South Korea’s high-pressure entertainment industry, a scandal can end a career overnight. “Cancel culture” in the Korean context is swift, often unforgiving, and heavily influenced by public sentiment and media scrutiny. Yet, some celebrities have managed to defy the odds — rising from controversy, reclaiming their careers, and even earning public admiration once again.

Here’s a list of top Korean celebrities who weathered cancel culture and made a remarkable comeback.

Controversy: Drug allegations in 2011
Comeback: Despite being caught up in a marijuana controversy during his peak years, G-Dragon was cleared of serious charges. After a period of reflection and hiatus, he returned to music and fashion, maintaining his status as an icon in both industries. His fans remained loyal, and he continues to be a global ambassador for top brands.

Controversy: Allegations of manipulation and school bullying in 2021
Comeback: The actress faced massive backlash during the peak of her career after It’s Okay to Not Be Okay. After stepping away from the spotlight, Seo Ye-ji made her return with Eve in 2022. While public opinion remains divided, her dedicated fanbase and strong acting skills have kept her as one of the most promising South Korean actresses in this era of television entertainment.

Controversy: Abortion scandal and personal life controversy in 2021
Comeback: After being dropped from several projects and endorsements, Kim Seon-ho’s reputation seemed irreparably damaged. However, after evidence emerged contradicting initial reports, public sentiment shifted. His return via the film Sad Tropics was met with warm reception, and many now see him as a victim of misinformation.

Controversy: Drug use and military-related scandal in 2017
Comeback: T.O.P's marijuana case led to public outrage, worsened by the scandal happening during his mandatory military service. He issued a public apology and kept a low profile for years. His recent reemergence as part of BIGBANG’s 2022 comeback and involvement in the space tourism project with Japanese billionaire Yusaku Maezawa reignited interest in his career. Moreover, he is one of the cast of Squid Game Season 2 which was released in December last year. He played Thanos, a washed-up rapper with drug problems. Although netizens gave mixed reviews about him and his role, once he appeared on interviews, he gained respect for his nice personality and people started to praise him for his good acting in Squid Game.

Controversy: Blackmail scandal involving inappropriate messages in 2014
Comeback: A respected actor with numerous awards, Lee Byung-hun faced public scrutiny after a blackmail scandal. Despite the backlash, he maintained transparency and continued working. His performances in dramas like Mr. Sunshine and films like Inside Men reminded audiences of his immense talent, helping restore his public image.

Controversy: Too bold for Korean TV
Comeback: While not tied to one scandal, Jessi has constantly battled societal norms and criticism over her outspoken nature, fashion, and language. Her authenticity eventually became her strength. With hit songs, viral variety show appearances, and a growing international following, Jessi has carved her own space in the industry.

Controversy: Drug charges and sexual assault allegations
Comeback: Perhaps the most controversial on the list, Park Yoochun's fall from grace was dramatic. Though he was acquitted in the sexual assault cases, his drug use led to a prison sentence. After being declared retired, he returned to the spotlight in Southeast Asia and Japan, where fan support remains strong, though his image in Korea remains tainted.

Controversy: Bullying, school violence, and sexual misconduct allegations in his past
Comeback: Though he was removed from the drama, River Where the Moon Rises and was highly criticized by netizens, he pursued work as an actor in the Philippines and is now being accepted by Filipinos who are known for their hospitality.

In a culture where image and honor are paramount, what allows some celebrities to rebound?
• Timing. A well-calculated hiatus gives the public time to move on.
• Transparency. Owning up to mistakes, sincere apologies, and visible remorse go a long way.
• Talent. Sometimes, pure skill outweighs scandals, fans and directors can't deny it.
• Fan Loyalty. Fandoms play a critical role in protecting and reviving their idols.
• Media Narrative. When the media softens its stance or shifts blame, public perception often follows.

The Korean entertainment world can be brutal, but it also thrives on redemption arcs. For these celebrities, survival required resilience, talent, and sometimes a little bit of luck. Whether their returns are embraced universally or remain controversial, one thing is clear — cancel culture in Korea may be powerful, but it isn’t always permanent.

In light of recent events, actor Kim Soo-hyun finds himself at the center of a storm. Following the tragic death of actress Kim Sae-ron on his birthday in February 2025, allegations surfaced claiming a relationship between the two that began when Kim Sae-ron was underage. These claims, supported by supposed letters and photos, quickly went viral and sparked widespread outrage. Despite denials from Kim Soo-hyun and his agency, the damage was swift: luxury brands like Prada cut ties, endorsements were suspended, his fan club withdrew support, and his new series 'Knock-Off' was postponed.

In response, Kim Soo-hyun has taken legal action against those spreading the allegations and continues to work on ongoing projects. His situation underscores how volatile cancel culture can be—even for established stars. Whether he will recover professionally remains to be seen, but his case may soon stand as either another story of redemption—or one of irreversible fall. Time, and public sentiment, will decide.