Gong Hyo Jin Defends Co-Star Jung Joon Won Following Variety Show Appearance Controversy

 

Lead Actress Clarifies Co-Star's Physical Distress After Broadcast

South Korean actress Gong Hyo Jin has publicly stepped forward to support her co-star Jung Joon Won after his recent appearance on MBC's variety program Hangout with Yoo drew mixed reactions from viewers online.

Jung appeared alongside Gong on the August 1 broadcast to promote their upcoming MBC drama Married Woman Killer. Making his debut appearance on a major broadcast variety show, Jung visibly struggled with extreme nervousness throughout the episode, repeatedly expressing confusion and freezing during promotional acting challenges.

Addressing the controversy on her personal social media account on August 4, Gong revealed the physical toll the filming took on the actor, sharing a lighthearted message of encouragement for her on-screen partner.

"This husband actually threw up after the recording ended," Gong wrote, referring to Jung's character in the drama. "I couldn't save you. I'm sorry."

Viewers Divided Over Rookie Variety Performance

During the episode, show host Yoo Jae Suk and Gong made multiple attempts to ease Jung's anxiety, though the actor remained visibly overwhelmed. Cast members eventually stepped in to assist with the scheduled promotional segments.

Following the broadcast, online discussions surfaced regarding Jung's performance. While some viewers criticized his lack of active participation as unprofessional, others defended the actor, pointing out the pressure associated with appearing on high-profile entertainment programs for the first time.

Korean variety shows rely heavily on unscripted ad-libs, rapid comedic timing, and intense social dynamics, making them notoriously challenging environments for non-regular guests and dramatic actors who are accustomed to scripted filming sets.

Industry peers also offered supportive commentary following the broadcast. Entertainer Haha left a comment praising the actor's sincerity and asking viewers for understanding.

"He was so lovely, cute, and funny," Haha wrote. "This show is difficult even for professional entertainers. Since he isn't a veteran variety personality, please view him fondly."

Project Details and Upcoming Broadcast Schedule

The upcoming series Married Woman Killer is adapted from the popular webtoon of the same name. Directed by Yun Jong Ho and Kim Ji Hoon, and written by acclaimed screenwriter Kim Eun Hee, the drama follows a working mother balancing a high-stakes secret career with family life.

Gong stars as the protagonist Yoo Bo Na, a professional assassin, while Jung plays her husband, journalist Kwon Tae Seong. MBC has not yet announced the official premiere date for the new Friday-Saturday drama.

https://www.dispatch.co.kr/2345996