On March 11, his agency Showplay Entertainment issued a statement apologizing for the matter.
According to the label, an acquaintance identified as “A” took Jung’s phone from his home, illegally accessed his photo album, and then began threatening him, claiming there was a video of Jung driving without a license.
The company acknowledged that Jung practiced driving for about 10 minutes on mountain roads near his family home in Hadong, and that a passenger filmed it. The alleged blackmailers, the label said, demanded more than 200 million won to keep the clip quiet, but Jung refused to pay.
Separately, the Seoul Western District Prosecutors’ Office is investigating Jung for alleged violation of the Road Traffic Act (unlicensed driving). He is accused of driving a truck in Hadong in 2023, when he was 16 and below the legal licensing age.
Early local reports claimed the group demanded 500 million won and that Jung paid roughly 100 million won. The agency disputes that, saying he did not hand over any money.
Showplay says Jung immediately reflected on his mistake and, prepared to face legal consequences for his own actions, reported the blackmail ring to police. The suspects have been arrested and are currently on trial, according to the label.
The company added that Jung deeply regrets practicing without a license and is reflecting on his actions. It pledged stronger guidance and education so he can grow into a more responsible public figure, while offering another apology to fans and the public.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)