How his career was derailed by a secret filming scandal.
SHAH ALAM - South Korean footballer Hwang Ui-jo, once celebrated as a national hero, is now facing legal turmoil that threatens both his career and legacy.
The former national team striker has admitted to secretly recording sexual encounters without consent, prompting prosecutors to seek a four-year prison sentence.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the events leading to this legal battle.
June 2023: Blackmail Allegations Lead to a Major Scandal
The controversy began in June 2023 when Hwang filed a complaint against his sister-in-law, accusing her of blackmail.
Hwang claimed that she had posted intimate photos and videos of him with other women on social media, threatening to release more.
Hwang’s agency, UJ Sports, supported him, stating, "All information disseminated on social media is untrue and we will take legal action against those who disclosed private information obtained illegally to damage the player’s reputation."
However, investigations soon revealed evidence of Hwang’s involvement in illegal filming, which led to his eventual indictment.
November 2023 - March 2024: Legal Actions Against His Sister-in-Law
On November 16, 2023, Hwang's sister-in-law, who had previously served as his agent, was arrested for blackmail and leaking private videos without consent. After initially denying the allegations, she admitted guilt in January 2024.
By March 2024, she was sentenced to three years in prison, ordered to attend a sexual violence treatment programme and banned from working in child-related institutions.
July 2024: Formal Charges Against Hwang
After months of investigation, Hwang was formally charged in July 2024 for violating the Sexual Violence Punishment Act.
Despite efforts by his defence team to dismiss the case, prosecutors moved forward accusing Hwang of secretly filming victims without their consent.
October 16, 2024: Guilty Plea and Prosecutors' Sentencing Request
On October 16, 2024, Hwang appeared in court and admitted to filming sexual encounters with two women without their consent.
Prosecutors stated that these incidents occurred on four separate occasions between June and September 2022.
During the trial, the prosecution emphasised the emotional distress caused to the victims.
"The victims must have endured immense pain and humiliation," they said. They also questioned Hwang's sincerity in reflecting on his actions.
Hwang expressed regret, offering a sincere apology: "I send out a sincere apology to all those hurt by my wrongful actions. I am also sorry for disappointing the people who have adored and cheered for me with my improper behavior."
He pleaded for leniency, expressing a desire to reform himself and resume his football career.
Prosecutors sought a four-year prison sentence, along with a requirement for Hwang to complete a sexual violence treatment programme, disclose personal information and adhere to a five-year employment restriction.
October - December 2024: Court Proceedings and Sentencing Delays
Prosecutors revealed that Hwang had deposited 200 million won (approximately USD $150,000) as settlement money to one of the victims. However, the victim refused the settlement, stating her desire for a harsh sentence.
On December 18, 2024, the court postponed Hwang's sentencing to February 14, 2025, following prosecutors' request to amend the indictment and include additional charges.
Once again, Hwang apologised in court, saying, "I deeply regret my actions and ask for leniency this one time. I promise to live responsibly moving forward."
The Fall of a Korean Star
Hwang's football career, which has taken him to notable European clubs like Bordeaux in France, Nottingham Forest in England and his current team, Alanyaspor in Turkey, now hangs in the balance due to the scandal.
Despite his impressive past achievements, including leading South Korea to a gold medal in the 2018 Asian Games, his current predicament has overshadowed his once-celebrated status.
Under South Korea's football regulations, Hwang’s return to the national team seems unlikely for the foreseeable future.
Article 17 of the national team operation regulations enforces a mandatory waiting period for players convicted of crimes, effectively sidelining him.
The final verdict, expected in February 2025, will determine whether Hwang can salvage his career and reputation or if his fall from grace will be irreversible.
As the court deliberates his fate, the former star striker faces an uncertain future both on and off the field.
