Cho Kuk on Kim Yong-ho's 'Actress Sponsorship Allegation': "Absolutely Unforgivable... Damage to Morality and Honor"

Former entertainment reporter Kim Yong-ho (45) / Photo by YouTube Capture

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Jung-yoon] Former Minister Cho Kuk appeared as a witness at the trial of former entertainment reporter Kim Yong-ho (45), who raised allegations of supporting an actress through YouTube, and expressed his intention for strict punishment.

On the 25th, Cho appeared as a witness at Kim’s trial held under the presiding of Judge Park Chang-hee of the Criminal Division 12 at the Seoul Eastern District Court, stating, "He broadcast false facts as if they were true, damaging my morality and honor, and my family was very outraged."

He continued, "Even though I, the victim, clarified that it was not true, instead of apologizing, he attacked me again as if his claims were correct," adding, "I absolutely cannot forgive this."

He further said, "Although I was a public figure at the time and could be subject to various criticisms, this issue is unrelated to public duties and even if it concerns private life, it is a baseless falsehood with no value," adding, "I only saw that actress on TV and have never had any direct or indirect contact with her."

When asked by Kim’s defense attorney whether he tried to use his recognition to help his younger brother’s business, Cho raised his voice, saying, "I never did that, and the question feels insulting."

Kim is accused of posting a video titled "Who is the actress supported by former Minister Cho?" on his YouTube channel "Kim Yong-ho Entertainment Chief" on August 25, 2019, claiming that "an actress who was going through a slump suddenly appeared in many works and advertisements, and former Minister Cho (then minister nominee) helped her."

Cho filed a complaint with the police against Kim for defamation by spreading false facts. Kim was indicted last December after the charges were recognized. Cho, who requested witness protection from the court in March, appeared in court on this day avoiding the press.

Meanwhile, the witness examination of Jang Ji-yeon, the wife of singer Kim Gun-mo, was also conducted privately on the same day. Previously, Jang sued Kim Yong-ho for using expressions reminiscent of her during a lecture and making unverified claims related to her private life.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.