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| ▲ Comedian Jo Se-ho is seen in this photo provided by BPM Studio. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap) |
SEOUL, Dec. 9 (Yonhap) -- Comedian Jo Se-ho will step down from two major television programs following allegations linking him to an organized-crime figure, his agency said Tuesday.
A2Z Entertainment announced that the 43-year-old entertainer will leave the popular variety shows "You Quiz on the Block" on tvN and "Two Days & One Night" on KBS 2TV.
"Jo Se-ho feels a deep sense of responsibility for the suspicions and controversy recently raised around him," the agency said. "He voluntarily decided to withdraw after consulting with the production teams, out of concern that his continued appearance could place a burden on the programs."
The agency, however, denied the allegations as "entirely groundless," rejecting claims that Jo has direct or indirect ties to the organized-crime figure or that he accepted lavish gifts in return for promoting the man's business.
A2Z said Jo plans to pursue legal action against what it described as misinformation and will work to restore his reputation.
"He vows to return once all doubts have been cleared," the agency said.
The production team of the KBS program confirmed Jo's departure, saying he will no longer appear except in episodes already filmed.
The controversy began after a social media post alleged Jo had been photographed with a man described as a key member of an organized crime ring operating various illegal gambling sites. The post also claimed Jo promoted a franchise practically owned by the man and received expensive gifts in return.
Despite Jo's denial, petitions calling for his removal surfaced on the broadcasters' viewer boards, prompting his decision to quit the shows.
On Tuesday, Jo also took to social media to address the allegations.
"I met many people I hadn't known before while travelling to various regional events. Because I was young and inexperienced, I wasn't able to handle all those connections in a mature way," he wrote.
"The suspicions raised because of those connections are completely untrue," he continued. "Still, I fully recognize that my appearance in the photos alone was enough to disappoint many people. I once again reflect deeply and offer my sincere apology."
Jo debuted in 2001 as a comedian on SBS and got married in October last year.
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