The KBS 2TV drama "Sungkyunkwan Scandal," which once boasted a peak viewership of 14.3%, is now rarely seen in reruns.
Aired in 2010, "Sungkyunkwan Scandal" featured Park Yoo-chun transitioning from an idol to an actor, rising star Park Min-young, Yoo Ah-in, and Song Joong-ki, garnering significant popularity. The four lead actors subsequently showcased their talents on both the small and big screens.
However, 13 years later, the lives of these actors have taken contrasting turns, with some facing legal battles and controversies, overshadowing the drama's legacy and making reruns scarce.
Firstly, Park Yoo-chun faced allegations of using the drug Philopon in 2019 after an exposé by an ex-girlfriend. He vehemently denied the accusations, vowing to retire from the entertainment industry if found guilty. However, drug tests returned positive results. He was subsequently indicted, receiving a 10-month prison sentence suspended for two years. While he has resumed activities domestically and internationally, TV appearances remain a challenge.
Yoo Ah-in's recent drug allegations have also disappointed many fans. Since 2020, he has been accused of purchasing and administering medical drugs, including Propofol, under the guise of cosmetic anesthesia in Seoul hospitals, amounting to about 500 million won. He's also suspected of illegally obtaining and consuming around 1,000 sleeping pills under someone else's name. Furthermore, during a trip to the U.S. in January with friends, he faced allegations of consuming cocaine and marijuana. Although two arrest warrants were requested, both were rejected. Yoo Ah-in faced public humiliation, being pelted with coffee cups and bouquets during court appearances.
Park Min-young was embroiled in a romance rumor with Kang, who faced allegations of being the real owner of Bithumb. While she clarified they had already broken up, she was seen driving an expensive car, presumably a gift from her ex. Her sister was also controversially registered as an external director of InbioGen, rumored to be owned by her ex-boyfriend. Park Min-young was also summoned for questioning related to the case.
On the brighter side, Song Joong-ki is experiencing some of the happiest moments of his life, from remarriage to international film recognition. In January, he surprised fans by announcing his marriage to British actress Katie Louise Saunders. Following the news of his remarriage, in June, he shared the joy of becoming a father. Song Joong-ki was also invited to the 76th Cannes Film Festival for his film 'Hwaran'.
Attending the press screening of 'Hwaran' in Seoul, Song Joong-ki shared, "I'm grateful for the overwhelming congratulations. Our child is growing healthily. As a first-time dad and with my wife being a first-time mom, we were surprised at how fast our child is growing. I hope to be a good role model for my child and am thankful to introduce a film I love at this time. I have no burdens. I hope my child grows up quickly to watch my works."
