Young Su, an 80-year-old South Korean actor globally recognized for portraying Player 001 in Netflix’s hit series “Round 6,” is facing a dramatic turn in his decades-long career. A South Korean court has sentenced him to one year in prison for sexual harassment, a ruling upheld after an appeal from his defense team. The case, rooted in events from 2017, involves a 22-year-old actress who was part of the same theater troupe as the veteran actor. This verdict follows an initial ruling in 2024, delayed by legal challenges, and now stands as a definitive blow despite the defense’s persistent claims of innocence. Young Su, once celebrated for his role in the cultural phenomenon, expressed mixed emotions in court as the decision unfolded.
With nearly five decades in South Korean theater and television, Young Su’s rise to international fame came with “Round 6,” a series that captivated audiences worldwide since its 2021 debut. The show’s gripping narrative and social commentary turned its cast into global stars, but this legal battle casts a shadow over his legacy. Prosecutors accused him of leveraging his influential status to intimidate a vulnerable colleague, sparking broader conversations about harassment in the entertainment industry and the challenges victims face when confronting powerful figures.
🚨 Oh Yeong-Su, conhecido pelo seu papel em “Round 6”, foi condenado pela justiça sul-coreana por ass*dio sex*al.
Ele foi foi sentenciado a até 8 meses de prisão! pic.twitter.com/lX9EIUOxrH
— POPTime (@siteptbr) March 16, 2024
The trial drew attention not only due to Young Su’s association with “Round 6” but also because of his advanced age. In court, he admitted feeling ashamed to face a legal ordeal at 80, reflecting on whether his words or actions were misinterpreted. “I’m embarrassed to be in a courtroom at my age. If my behavior was wrong, I’ll accept the consequences, but I still believe I didn’t commit harassment,” he stated. His words echo the defense’s stance, which continues to challenge the evidence and the narrative surrounding the incidents.
Details of the case that shook Young Su’s career
The incidents leading to Young Su’s conviction took place in 2017 across two separate occasions while he worked alongside the victim in a theater company. Prosecutors allege that the actor, then 72, exploited his seniority to harass the 22-year-old actress, creating an intimidating environment. The young woman, described as defenseless within the troupe’s hierarchy, endured behavior that authorities deemed inappropriate and coercive, rooted in the power imbalance between the two.
The investigation gained traction after the actress filed a formal complaint, recounting moments of discomfort and disrespect. Authorities emphasized Young Su’s stature as a veteran with nearly 50 years in the industry, arguing that his actions were a clear abuse of authority. In contrast, the defense contends that the interactions were misconstrued, lacking malicious intent, and has called for a closer examination of the evidence presented during the trial.
Initially sentenced in 2024, Young Su’s punishment was postponed due to an appeal. Now, with the April 2025 ruling confirming the one-year term, the actor faces the prospect of incarceration unless further legal maneuvers alter the outcome. South Korea’s judiciary has increasingly adopted a hardline stance on harassment cases, signaling a cultural shift toward accountability, even for prominent figures like Young Su.
- Key facts of the case:
- Incidents occurred twice in 2017.
- Victim was a 22-year-old actress in the same theater troupe.
- Young Su received a one-year sentence in April 2025.
- Defense maintains his innocence.
Impact on “Round 6” and its cast
“Round 6” stormed onto the global stage in 2021, becoming Netflix’s most-watched series with over 142 million households tuning in within its first 28 days. Its blend of survival drama and biting social critique fueled its rise, with a second season dropping in December 2024 and a third slated for June 27, 2025, poised to conclude the saga. Young Su’s role as Player 001, an elderly contestant with a pivotal twist, was a cornerstone of the first season’s emotional weight.
His conviction now raises questions about the series’ public image. While Netflix has remained silent on the matter, online reactions reveal a split: some fans argue for separating the art from the artist, while others reconsider Young Su’s contribution in light of the allegations. The scandal adds a layer of complexity to the franchise’s legacy, already touched by the recent passing of actress Lee Joo-Sil at 81 in March 2025.
Meanwhile, co-stars like Lee Jung-jae and Park Sung-hoon continue to shine. Park Sung-hoon recently visited Brazil, engaging with local media about the show’s success, while the third season’s promotion ramps up. With its release date approaching, “Round 6” remains a juggernaut, but Young Su’s legal troubles could subtly shift how audiences perceive its ensemble.
Cultural context and shifts in South Korea
South Korea has seen a surge in harassment cases gaining public attention since the #MeToo movement took root in 2018. A society long defined by rigid hierarchies and reverence for elders is now grappling with these traditions as victims step forward. Young Su’s case exemplifies this evolution, where neither age nor prestige shields individuals from scrutiny, reflecting a broader push for justice.
The entertainment industry, in particular, has faced intense examination. Young actors and actresses have reported exploitation by seasoned professionals, prompting a wave of lawsuits. Young Su’s sentencing aligns with this trend, following precedents like a 2023 case where another well-known actor received a two-year term for similar charges. Courts are sending a clear message: abusive behavior will face consequences.
For the victim in Young Su’s case, the journey to this verdict was arduous. At 22 during the incidents, she confronted skepticism before her claims were validated. Her persistence underscores a growing willingness among younger generations to challenge authority, bolstered by a legal system increasingly responsive to such allegations.
Young Su’s response and legal next steps
In court, Young Su laid bare his unease. At 80, he described the humiliation of facing trial, acknowledging the weight of the moment while defending his actions. “If my words or actions crossed a line, I’ll face the outcome,” he said, yet insisted that reflection led him to believe no harassment occurred. His statement mirrors the defense’s strategy, which hinges on portraying the incidents as misunderstandings.
The legal team has hinted at filing another appeal, aiming to overturn or lessen the sentence. They argue that the evidence lacks concreteness and that the theatrical setting—where close interactions are common—may have muddied perceptions. Prosecutors, however, view the ruling as a triumph, reinforcing protections against power abuses.
Should the sentence stand, Young Su will serve his year in prison, a stark contrast to the gentle persona he crafted in “Round 6.” Any further appeals could delay this, but the clock is ticking. His potential incarceration also poses questions about his involvement in future “Round 6”-related projects, which creator Hwang Dong-hyuk has hinted will expand beyond the main series.
What to expect from “Round 6” season 3
Amid Young Su’s legal saga, “Round 6” presses forward as a cultural titan. The third season, set for June 27, 2025, will wrap up Seong Gi-hun’s arc, played by Lee Jung-jae. Following the second season’s December 26, 2024 debut, Gi-hun aims to dismantle the deadly games from within, clashing with the enigmatic Front Man, portrayed by Lee Byung-hun.
Early images reveal survivors split into blue and red teams, hinting at fresh twists in the lethal competitions. Hwang Dong-hyuk, the series’ writer and director, has promised an epic showdown, with Gi-hun’s choices driving catastrophic stakes. A post-credits scene from season two, featuring the “Red Light, Green Light” doll alongside a new robotic figure, suggests an even grander scale for the finale.
- “Round 6” timeline:
- Season 1: Released September 17, 2021.
- Season 2: Premiered December 26, 2024.
- Season 3: Scheduled for June 27, 2025.
Young Su’s career before the scandal
Before “Round 6,” Young Su was a fixture in South Korean entertainment. With nearly 50 years of work in theater and TV, he earned respect for his versatility and dedication. His casting as Player 001 was no fluke—his gravitas and experience enriched the role, making it a standout in the series’ debut season.
The global success of “Round 6” catapulted him to new heights at 76, with fans worldwide embracing his portrayal. Now, the harassment conviction threatens to unravel that acclaim, forcing a reevaluation of his contributions. Once a symbol of artistic longevity, Young Su’s legacy hangs in the balance.
His shift from revered veteran to convicted figure is jarring. While peers like Park Sung-hoon bask in rising fame—highlighted by international appearances—Young Su confronts a potential end to his career, overshadowed by a scandal that has yet to fade.
Pressure on Netflix and the franchise’s future
Netflix turned “Round 6” into a record-breaking triumph, with season two racking up 68 million views in its first four days in December 2024. The third season, already filmed, keeps the focus on Gi-hun and the Front Man, but Young Su’s absence from future endeavors seems likely given the severity of his situation.
Hwang Dong-hyuk has teased that “Round 6” will live on through spin-offs, with him stepping into a consulting or co-creator role. Young Su’s involvement in these plans now appears doubtful, as the scandal complicates his association with the brand. Netflix faces a delicate balancing act to preserve the franchise’s reputation amid growing public awareness.
The platform’s silence may not hold as the season three premiere nears. Fans and media could demand clarity on how Netflix addresses cast controversies, especially for a series that thrives on its moral complexity and global reach.
Public debate and victim support
Young Su’s sentencing has sparked diverse reactions. Online, some fans mourn his fate, citing his age and artistic legacy, while others hail the ruling as justice served, emphasizing accountability over status. The unnamed victim, now a symbol of resilience, has galvanized discussions about speaking out against abuse.
In South Korea, advocacy groups for sexual violence survivors praised the outcome. For them, the case marks progress in dismantling the silence that once shielded perpetrators in entertainment. Amplified by “Round 6”’s fame, the story has transcended borders, fueling global dialogue on power dynamics and responsibility.
This divide highlights the complexities of judging public figures. Young Su retains defenders who question the verdict’s fairness, but the rising focus on victims suggests his case could inspire further reckonings in and beyond South Korea’s creative industries.
Potential legal and career outcomes
With the sentence locked in, Young Su’s legal options are narrowing. Another appeal could be lodged, though success grows less likely. If upheld, the 80-year-old will serve his term, raising concerns about his health in prison and how South Korea’s system will accommodate him.
Professionally, the fallout is murky. Before the scandal, Young Su was a candidate for “Round 6” cameos or spin-off roles. Now, his tainted reputation makes such prospects remote. Netflix, heavily invested in the franchise, may sever ties entirely, leaving his career in limbo.
- Possible paths for Young Su:
- Serving the full one-year sentence if appeals fail.
- A reduced term through further legal efforts.
- Permanent exclusion from “Round 6” projects.
A legacy under scrutiny after decades of acclaim
At 80, Young Su boasted a career few could rival. From theater stages to TV screens, his nearly 50-year run cemented his status as a South Korean icon. “Round 6” seemed a crowning achievement, with Player 001 blending frailty and cunning to captivate audiences. Today, that role is reframed by his conviction.
The parallels between his character and real-life actions are striking. Player 001 deceived with a fragile facade, while Young Su stands accused of exploiting his authority. This irony haunts his legacy, as fans and critics alike ponder whether his artistic highs can endure the stain of this scandal.
For now, Young Su’s story remains unresolved. Prison could close his career’s final act, but the broader impact—on victims, the industry, and his own reputation—may prove the more enduring narrative.

Young Su, an 80-year-old South Korean actor globally recognized for portraying Player 001 in Netflix’s hit series “Round 6,” is facing a dramatic turn in his decades-long career. A South Korean court has sentenced him to one year in prison for sexual harassment, a ruling upheld after an appeal from his defense team. The case, rooted in events from 2017, involves a 22-year-old actress who was part of the same theater troupe as the veteran actor. This verdict follows an initial ruling in 2024, delayed by legal challenges, and now stands as a definitive blow despite the defense’s persistent claims of innocence. Young Su, once celebrated for his role in the cultural phenomenon, expressed mixed emotions in court as the decision unfolded.
With nearly five decades in South Korean theater and television, Young Su’s rise to international fame came with “Round 6,” a series that captivated audiences worldwide since its 2021 debut. The show’s gripping narrative and social commentary turned its cast into global stars, but this legal battle casts a shadow over his legacy. Prosecutors accused him of leveraging his influential status to intimidate a vulnerable colleague, sparking broader conversations about harassment in the entertainment industry and the challenges victims face when confronting powerful figures.
🚨 Oh Yeong-Su, conhecido pelo seu papel em “Round 6”, foi condenado pela justiça sul-coreana por ass*dio sex*al.
Ele foi foi sentenciado a até 8 meses de prisão! pic.twitter.com/lX9EIUOxrH
— POPTime (@siteptbr) March 16, 2024
The trial drew attention not only due to Young Su’s association with “Round 6” but also because of his advanced age. In court, he admitted feeling ashamed to face a legal ordeal at 80, reflecting on whether his words or actions were misinterpreted. “I’m embarrassed to be in a courtroom at my age. If my behavior was wrong, I’ll accept the consequences, but I still believe I didn’t commit harassment,” he stated. His words echo the defense’s stance, which continues to challenge the evidence and the narrative surrounding the incidents.
Details of the case that shook Young Su’s career
The incidents leading to Young Su’s conviction took place in 2017 across two separate occasions while he worked alongside the victim in a theater company. Prosecutors allege that the actor, then 72, exploited his seniority to harass the 22-year-old actress, creating an intimidating environment. The young woman, described as defenseless within the troupe’s hierarchy, endured behavior that authorities deemed inappropriate and coercive, rooted in the power imbalance between the two.
The investigation gained traction after the actress filed a formal complaint, recounting moments of discomfort and disrespect. Authorities emphasized Young Su’s stature as a veteran with nearly 50 years in the industry, arguing that his actions were a clear abuse of authority. In contrast, the defense contends that the interactions were misconstrued, lacking malicious intent, and has called for a closer examination of the evidence presented during the trial.
Initially sentenced in 2024, Young Su’s punishment was postponed due to an appeal. Now, with the April 2025 ruling confirming the one-year term, the actor faces the prospect of incarceration unless further legal maneuvers alter the outcome. South Korea’s judiciary has increasingly adopted a hardline stance on harassment cases, signaling a cultural shift toward accountability, even for prominent figures like Young Su.
- Key facts of the case:
- Incidents occurred twice in 2017.
- Victim was a 22-year-old actress in the same theater troupe.
- Young Su received a one-year sentence in April 2025.
- Defense maintains his innocence.
Impact on “Round 6” and its cast
“Round 6” stormed onto the global stage in 2021, becoming Netflix’s most-watched series with over 142 million households tuning in within its first 28 days. Its blend of survival drama and biting social critique fueled its rise, with a second season dropping in December 2024 and a third slated for June 27, 2025, poised to conclude the saga. Young Su’s role as Player 001, an elderly contestant with a pivotal twist, was a cornerstone of the first season’s emotional weight.
His conviction now raises questions about the series’ public image. While Netflix has remained silent on the matter, online reactions reveal a split: some fans argue for separating the art from the artist, while others reconsider Young Su’s contribution in light of the allegations. The scandal adds a layer of complexity to the franchise’s legacy, already touched by the recent passing of actress Lee Joo-Sil at 81 in March 2025.
Meanwhile, co-stars like Lee Jung-jae and Park Sung-hoon continue to shine. Park Sung-hoon recently visited Brazil, engaging with local media about the show’s success, while the third season’s promotion ramps up. With its release date approaching, “Round 6” remains a juggernaut, but Young Su’s legal troubles could subtly shift how audiences perceive its ensemble.
Cultural context and shifts in South Korea
South Korea has seen a surge in harassment cases gaining public attention since the #MeToo movement took root in 2018. A society long defined by rigid hierarchies and reverence for elders is now grappling with these traditions as victims step forward. Young Su’s case exemplifies this evolution, where neither age nor prestige shields individuals from scrutiny, reflecting a broader push for justice.
The entertainment industry, in particular, has faced intense examination. Young actors and actresses have reported exploitation by seasoned professionals, prompting a wave of lawsuits. Young Su’s sentencing aligns with this trend, following precedents like a 2023 case where another well-known actor received a two-year term for similar charges. Courts are sending a clear message: abusive behavior will face consequences.
For the victim in Young Su’s case, the journey to this verdict was arduous. At 22 during the incidents, she confronted skepticism before her claims were validated. Her persistence underscores a growing willingness among younger generations to challenge authority, bolstered by a legal system increasingly responsive to such allegations.
Young Su’s response and legal next steps
In court, Young Su laid bare his unease. At 80, he described the humiliation of facing trial, acknowledging the weight of the moment while defending his actions. “If my words or actions crossed a line, I’ll face the outcome,” he said, yet insisted that reflection led him to believe no harassment occurred. His statement mirrors the defense’s strategy, which hinges on portraying the incidents as misunderstandings.
The legal team has hinted at filing another appeal, aiming to overturn or lessen the sentence. They argue that the evidence lacks concreteness and that the theatrical setting—where close interactions are common—may have muddied perceptions. Prosecutors, however, view the ruling as a triumph, reinforcing protections against power abuses.
Should the sentence stand, Young Su will serve his year in prison, a stark contrast to the gentle persona he crafted in “Round 6.” Any further appeals could delay this, but the clock is ticking. His potential incarceration also poses questions about his involvement in future “Round 6”-related projects, which creator Hwang Dong-hyuk has hinted will expand beyond the main series.
What to expect from “Round 6” season 3
Amid Young Su’s legal saga, “Round 6” presses forward as a cultural titan. The third season, set for June 27, 2025, will wrap up Seong Gi-hun’s arc, played by Lee Jung-jae. Following the second season’s December 26, 2024 debut, Gi-hun aims to dismantle the deadly games from within, clashing with the enigmatic Front Man, portrayed by Lee Byung-hun.
Early images reveal survivors split into blue and red teams, hinting at fresh twists in the lethal competitions. Hwang Dong-hyuk, the series’ writer and director, has promised an epic showdown, with Gi-hun’s choices driving catastrophic stakes. A post-credits scene from season two, featuring the “Red Light, Green Light” doll alongside a new robotic figure, suggests an even grander scale for the finale.
- “Round 6” timeline:
- Season 1: Released September 17, 2021.
- Season 2: Premiered December 26, 2024.
- Season 3: Scheduled for June 27, 2025.
Young Su’s career before the scandal
Before “Round 6,” Young Su was a fixture in South Korean entertainment. With nearly 50 years of work in theater and TV, he earned respect for his versatility and dedication. His casting as Player 001 was no fluke—his gravitas and experience enriched the role, making it a standout in the series’ debut season.
The global success of “Round 6” catapulted him to new heights at 76, with fans worldwide embracing his portrayal. Now, the harassment conviction threatens to unravel that acclaim, forcing a reevaluation of his contributions. Once a symbol of artistic longevity, Young Su’s legacy hangs in the balance.
His shift from revered veteran to convicted figure is jarring. While peers like Park Sung-hoon bask in rising fame—highlighted by international appearances—Young Su confronts a potential end to his career, overshadowed by a scandal that has yet to fade.
Pressure on Netflix and the franchise’s future
Netflix turned “Round 6” into a record-breaking triumph, with season two racking up 68 million views in its first four days in December 2024. The third season, already filmed, keeps the focus on Gi-hun and the Front Man, but Young Su’s absence from future endeavors seems likely given the severity of his situation.
Hwang Dong-hyuk has teased that “Round 6” will live on through spin-offs, with him stepping into a consulting or co-creator role. Young Su’s involvement in these plans now appears doubtful, as the scandal complicates his association with the brand. Netflix faces a delicate balancing act to preserve the franchise’s reputation amid growing public awareness.
The platform’s silence may not hold as the season three premiere nears. Fans and media could demand clarity on how Netflix addresses cast controversies, especially for a series that thrives on its moral complexity and global reach.
Public debate and victim support
Young Su’s sentencing has sparked diverse reactions. Online, some fans mourn his fate, citing his age and artistic legacy, while others hail the ruling as justice served, emphasizing accountability over status. The unnamed victim, now a symbol of resilience, has galvanized discussions about speaking out against abuse.
In South Korea, advocacy groups for sexual violence survivors praised the outcome. For them, the case marks progress in dismantling the silence that once shielded perpetrators in entertainment. Amplified by “Round 6”’s fame, the story has transcended borders, fueling global dialogue on power dynamics and responsibility.
This divide highlights the complexities of judging public figures. Young Su retains defenders who question the verdict’s fairness, but the rising focus on victims suggests his case could inspire further reckonings in and beyond South Korea’s creative industries.
Potential legal and career outcomes
With the sentence locked in, Young Su’s legal options are narrowing. Another appeal could be lodged, though success grows less likely. If upheld, the 80-year-old will serve his term, raising concerns about his health in prison and how South Korea’s system will accommodate him.
Professionally, the fallout is murky. Before the scandal, Young Su was a candidate for “Round 6” cameos or spin-off roles. Now, his tainted reputation makes such prospects remote. Netflix, heavily invested in the franchise, may sever ties entirely, leaving his career in limbo.
- Possible paths for Young Su:
- Serving the full one-year sentence if appeals fail.
- A reduced term through further legal efforts.
- Permanent exclusion from “Round 6” projects.
A legacy under scrutiny after decades of acclaim
At 80, Young Su boasted a career few could rival. From theater stages to TV screens, his nearly 50-year run cemented his status as a South Korean icon. “Round 6” seemed a crowning achievement, with Player 001 blending frailty and cunning to captivate audiences. Today, that role is reframed by his conviction.
The parallels between his character and real-life actions are striking. Player 001 deceived with a fragile facade, while Young Su stands accused of exploiting his authority. This irony haunts his legacy, as fans and critics alike ponder whether his artistic highs can endure the stain of this scandal.
For now, Young Su’s story remains unresolved. Prison could close his career’s final act, but the broader impact—on victims, the industry, and his own reputation—may prove the more enduring narrative.
