25 February,2026 08:05 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Oh Dal Su
South Korean actor Oh Dal-su, known internationally for his role in Squid Game Season 2, has spoken publicly about the sexual misconduct allegations that surfaced against him during the Me Too movement. In a recent interview, he addressed the controversy at length, stating that he cannot accept being labelled a "rapist," while also expressing regret for behaviour in his younger years and apologising to those who may have been hurt.
The allegations first emerged in February 2018, when a woman accused him of sexual abuse that allegedly took place in the 1990s during his theatre days. At the time, Oh initially denied the claims. As more accusations surfaced, including one raised on JTBC's Newsroom, he later acknowledged certain inappropriate conduct and issued a public apology to the women involved.
In his recent remarks, Oh reflected on the difficult period when the controversy became public. He described the time as confusing and overwhelming, saying that he feared even casual comments could be misinterpreted under intense scrutiny. He admitted that he had been immature in his youth and said he wanted to apologise again to the two women who accused him. However, he firmly denied being a rapist or a sexual offender.
He stated that if anyone felt hurt in past relationships with him during his twenties, he was willing to take responsibility for that and criticise his younger self. At the same time, he said he could not accept living his entire life branded with a label he believes does not reflect who he is.
Following the allegations, Oh stepped away from the spotlight and kept a low profile for a period. The alleged incidents were said to have occurred decades ago, and authorities eventually closed the case due to the statute of limitations. He was cleared of sexual assault charges in 2019.
In recent years, Oh has gradually returned to acting, including his appearance in Squid Game Season 2. His comeback has sparked mixed reactions, but he maintains that while he regrets past mistakes, he rejects being defined by the most serious accusations made against him.
