Squid Game garnered international acclaim due to its unique concept with gritty elements that surprisingly managed to capture the psycho-social aspect of humanity. While Netflix has already greenlighted the show for another season, devastating news revolving around South Korean veteran actor, O Yeong-su is currently making headlines.
The 79-year-old actor has been convicted of sexual misconduct, and given an eight-month prison sentence according to a statement by a local court in South Korea.
Squid Game Actor, O Yeong-su Convicted of Sexual Misconduct
The Squid Game veteran actor, O Yeong-su was officially charged in 2022 for allegedly sexually assaulting a woman twice on different occasions. The assaults happened in 2017 when Oh was staying in a rural area for a theatre performance during his two-month tour as per the Seongnam Branch of the Suwon District Court via BBC.
He was indicted two years ago over allegations that he hugged a woman and kissed her on the cheek against her will. It took place on a walking path and in front of the victim’s residence, however the actor has denied those claims.
The court stated via The Korea Times,
“What’s written in the victim’s diary, and the counseling report of the victim after the incident pretty much match the details of this case” adding that victim’s testimony is consistent and is “not something that can be made up.”
Initially, the case was closed without filing any charges against the actor but the prosecution reopened the investigation at the victim’s request. O has been found guilty of these charges and is sentenced to eight months in prison with two years suspension. He is also mandated to complete 40 hours of a sexual offender treatment program.
O is widely recognized for playing the role of Oh Il-Nam, who is later revealed to be the main antagonist of Squid Game Season 1. He also became the first South Korean actor to win a Golden Globe for Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role on TV.
While the actor has planned to appeal the court’s decision, he has already been dropped from an upcoming film in South Korea, Reuters reported via BBC. As for the popular Netflix show, it has been renewed for a second season.
Squid Game Season 2 is Arriving This Year!
In January 2021, Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos talked about the platform’s plans for the ‘Squid Game Universe’ which he believed could be more than just a series. According to Marca,
“The Squid Game universe has just begun. We’re building those muscles steadily with our consumer products, both like the Squid Game tracksuits, and then we’re making a big push on experiences that are mobile and portable.”
Even, creator Hwang Dong-hyuk confirmed going ahead with the second season in November 2021. Eventually, Season 2 was announced next year with the filming wrapping up last year. As everyone expected the series to release this year, Netflix itself confirmed its arrival earlier this year.
Netflix confirmed in a letter sent to investors about greenlighting the second season. The letter read via Variety,
“Looking ahead, despite last year’s strikes pushing back the launch of some titles, we have a big, bold slate for 2024. Audiences will be able to choose from hit returning dramas like The Diplomat S2, Bridgerton S3, Squid Game S2 and Empress S2.
While the exact date of Season 2 arrival remains undisclosed, one can enjoy the first season which is available on Netflix.
