Jung Joon Won sparks attitude controversy after 'Hangout with Yoo' appearance

02 Aug 2026, 05:59 by hjang · allkpop

Actor Jung Joon Won has sparked criticism over his appearance on MBC variety show 'Hangout with Yoo'.

In the August 1 episode, actors Gong Hyo Jin and Jung Joon Won appeared on the show as guests.

During the episode, Yoo Jae Suk held auditions for a short-form drama project. Gong Hyo Jin appeared to promote her drama 'The Married Woman Killer' and introduced her co-star Jung Joon Won as a potential male lead.

When Jung Joon Won appeared hesitantly, Gong Hyo Jin expressed concern, saying, "He is really not good at this," referring to variety shows.

Yoo Jae Suk then asked Jung Joon Won if he had watched their previous projects and what he thought of them. After a long pause, Jung Joon Won replied, "It's something that's easy to watch."

When asked if there was a project that represented the style of their show, he struggled to answer again, prompting Gong Hyo Jin to step in and mention films including 'Oldboy' and 'Mother'.

As the interview continued, Jung Joon Won repeatedly hesitated, with Gong Hyo Jin often stepping in to help answer questions.

The cast later asked him to participate in a challenge using the line "How old are you?" Although he initially appeared ready to participate by asking where he should look while delivering the line, he eventually failed to continue and repeatedly closed his eyes without saying anything.

After giving him another chance, Yoo Jae Suk eventually moved on, saying, "I think viewers are probably wondering when you are going to say it. Try it next time." Gong Hyo Jin then completed the challenge herself.

Following the broadcast, some viewers criticized Jung Joon Won's appearance, accusing him of lacking effort. Comments included, "His behavior was frustrating," "Stop using introversion as a concept for male actors," and "Why come on the show if he is going to ruin the atmosphere?"

However, others defended him, saying that he is naturally shy and that it was understandable for an actor unfamiliar with variety shows to feel uncomfortable.

Meanwhile, Jung Joon Won gained attention through tvN drama 'Resident Playbook', where his romance storyline with Go Youn Jung received mixed reactions from viewers. Addressing the criticism, he said, "I was certain those comments would come up. I wasn't upset after hearing them. I wanted to approach it with confidence that opinions could change."

He also faced casting criticism for his role in the webtoon-based drama 'The Married Woman Killer', as the character was originally portrayed as a handsome male lead in the original work. Regarding the criticism, he said, "As an actor, I didn't think that setting was essential. I believed the character could still appear admirable through his love for his wife and daughter and his dedication at work."

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