Ock Joo-hyun challenges Kim Ho-young over 'Ok-jang-pan' controversy

Singer and musical actress Ock Joo-hyun has once again addressed the so-called 'Ok-jang-pan' controversy, publicly urging actor Kim Ho-young—who provided an explanation during the original dispute—to clarify his position.

On the 17th, Ock wrote on a fan communication platform, "I am waiting," adding, "It is time for my friend to either prove that they conducted a group buy for 'Ok-jang-pan' or do something with their mouth and hands."

She further expressed her distress, stating, "A junior actor who joined the 10th-anniversary performance through auditions suffered unbearable emotional wounds, and the production company that has carried on a 10-year history has also been burdened with defamation and dishonor. It has become too deep a karma to simply let these things pass."

These remarks follow Ock's recent mention of the damages caused by the 'Ok-jang-pan' controversy via her social media (SNS).

Previously, on the 8th, she lamented on SNS, "I thought staying silent while pretending to be okay was the best course of action, but the 'Ok-jang-pan' frame did not disappear and has somehow become a nickname attached to my name." She continued, "I regret withdrawing the lawsuit," noting, "Not only has my image been tarnished, but it has also had a significant impact on my advertisements and acting activities."

The 'Ok-jang-pan' controversy began during the casting process for the musical 'Elisabeth' in 2022. While some raised suspicions of Ock's involvement in the casting at the time, Kim posted on his SNS, "The days of a chaotic mess are old news. Now it is 'Ok-jang-pan'," leading to widespread interpretations that he was targeting Ock.

Subsequently, Ock and the production company EMK Musical Company flatly denied the allegations of casting interference, and Ock sued Kim for defamation.

In response, Kim explained that the post in question was not referring to Ock, but was intended to promote an 'Ok-jang-pan' business run by a friend's father. Later, Ock withdrew the lawsuit, stating, "I do not want to escalate the controversy any further," which temporarily concluded the legal dispute.

However, the controversy is being reignited as Ock recently expressed regret over her previous decision and publicly challenged Kim's explanation once again.

As of now, Kim's side has not released an official statement regarding Ock's recent remarks.