[Exclusive]"Overwhelmed by powerlessness.." Ko Young-wook's challenge to become a Japanese AV performer? A self-deprecating joke [Star Issue]

*This content was translated by AI.

Ko Young-wook, 50, formerly of the group Rula, sparked controversy after mentioning the possibility of pursuing a career as a Japanese adult video (AV) performer. In response, an explanation was issued stating that the post was intended as a self-deprecating joke.

According to StarNews' investigation on the 13th, Ko Young-wook reportedly did not anticipate that his post uploaded to X (formerly Twitter) on the 12th would escalate into such controversy. The explanation clarified that the post was not meant to express a genuine desire to become an AV performer but rather a self-mocking joke reflecting his sense of powerlessness toward reality.

It is understood that feelings of frustration and helplessness arising from the difficult economic situation, as his activities in Korea's entertainment industry have effectively ceased, were reflected in the post. Reports indicate that there are no concrete plans to advance into Japan or appear in an AV production.

Ko Young-wook had previously expressed his practical difficulties via X in January. He wrote, "Rehabilitation is meant to help people return to society, but how can someone like me survive in a world that unconditionally stigmatizes us? I spent exactly 13 years, 8 months, and 21 days aimlessly as an unemployed person. There seems to be no place for me in this society, nor any way to earn money for our beloved dogs' food."

It is reported that Ko Young-wook typically does not attach special significance to his posts on X but rather shares personal thoughts lightly.

Earlier, on the 12th, Ko Young-wook posted on his X account: "I just wanted to live happily while making people laugh. It seems difficult to find a job in Korea, and I heard somewhere that there is a shortage of male AV performers in Japan. If it's legally possible..."

He added, "If the law permits," leading to interpretations that he was expressing interest in becoming an AV performer in Japan, which sparked widespread controversy online.

Meanwhile, Ko Young-wook was sentenced to two years and six months in prison in 2013 on charges of sexually assaulting a minor. At the time, he was also ordered to have his personal information publicly disclosed for five years and to wear an electronic ankle bracelet for three years—the first such order for a celebrity. After his release, he attempted to resume activities through Instagram and YouTube but faced setbacks due to his criminal record involving sexual offenses.

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*This content was translated by AI.