South Korean footballer Hwang Ui-jo has expressed remorse for secretly filming sexual encounters with two of his partners without their consent.
The 31-year-old striker’s apology came during his first court appearance in Seoul on Wednesday.
According to prosecutors, Hwang recorded intimate moments with the two women on four occasions between June and September 2022. The Korea Times reported that prosecutors are seeking a four-year prison term for the footballer.
“I am deeply sorry for causing disappointment,” Hwang stated in court. “I will not do anything wrong in the future and will do my best as a footballer.” He also addressed the victims directly, saying, “I sincerely apologize to the victims affected by my actions.”
The illicit recordings surfaced in June last year when Hwang’s sister-in-law posted them on social media as part of a blackmail attempt.
She was subsequently sentenced to three years in prison in September after Hwang filed a lawsuit against her.
Despite resolving the blackmail case, prosecutors continued to pursue charges against Hwang for illegally filming the videos. To protect the victims’ identities and prevent further harm, prosecutors declined to release information about them.
Hwang’s case has sparked widespread attention, particularly given his high-profile football career. Last month, he transferred from England’s Nottingham Forest to Turkey’s Alanyaspor.
The sentencing date for Hwang is scheduled for December 18, 2024.
“I am deeply sorry for the disappointment I have caused to everyone who has supported me,” Hwang concluded.
