By Maladubu 
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from following the Korean entertainment industry, it’s that scandals don’t treat everyone equally.
Unlike actors who get second (or third) chances, many actresses face permanent exile from the industry. While male actors have made comebacks after serious allegations (think DUIs, drug use, or even violent crimes), female celebrities often get permanently blacklisted for far less. Let’s take a deep dive into the actresses who had it all and lost it.
1. Kim Sae Ron – DUI Scandal and Career Fallout
Kim Sae Ron was once hailed as one of Korea’s most promising young actresses, but her career took a drastic turn in 2022 when she was caught drunk driving, crashing into a transformer box, and causing a power outage. She lost all of her upcoming projects and was quickly dropped from endorsement deals. Despite issuing multiple apologies, the damage was done—netizens weren’t willing to forgive. Tragically, on February 16, 2025, she was found dead in her home in Seoul, marking the definitive end of a once-promising career.
2. Seo Ye Ji – Gaslighting and Manipulation Allegations
Seo Ye Ji had everything—stunning visuals, charisma, and a successful career. But everything came crashing down when reports surfaced that she had manipulated and controlled her ex-boyfriend, actor Kim Jung Hyun, while he was filming a drama. Screenshots and alleged texts painted her as possessive and controlling, sparking a major backlash. She was removed from multiple projects, and the industry distanced itself from her.
3. Han Ye Seul – Dating Scandals and Industry Blacklisting
Han Ye Seul’s career wasn’t taken down by a crime or major controversy but rather persistent rumors and negative press surrounding her personal life. Netizens heavily criticized her romantic relationships, especially allegations about her partner’s past. While she was not involved in any illegal activities, she became a target for malicious gossip. She is mostly active on social media now but rarely lands major acting gigs.
4. Yoon Eun Hye – Plagiarism Accusations
Once a household name thanks to hits like Goong and Coffee Prince, Yoon Eun Hye’s career hit a major roadblock when she was accused of plagiarizing fashion designs. The backlash was swift and brutal, with netizens calling her a fraud. The industry turned its back on her, and opportunities dried up.
5. Park Si Yeon – Drug Abuse Scandal
Park Si Yeon was a rising star before she was convicted of illegal propofol use. The scandal destroyed her image, leading to huge career setbacks. Though she has taken on small roles, she never regained her former status. In a male actor’s case, this might have been a temporary setback—but for her, it was career-ending.
6. Lee Da Hae – National Image Damage & Plagiarism Scandal
Lee Da-hae was on the path to becoming a top star, but her comments about Korea’s image while working in China backfired spectacularly. She was accused of disrespecting Korea, leading to a massive public outcry. Netizens boycotted her, making it impossible for her to land roles in Korea. She eventually moved her career to China.
7. Clara – Contract Dispute and Public Backlash
Clara’s downfall wasn’t about a crime or personal scandal but rather a high-profile legal battle with her agency. She accused her management of unfair contract terms, but the media painted her as a manipulative troublemaker. The backlash was intense, and she lost nearly all industry support. She still works internationally, but her time in mainstream Korean entertainment is done.
Final Thoughts
The reality is Korea’s entertainment industry (and society as a whole) has a long way to go in treating male and female celebrities equally. While some actresses have attempted quiet returns, none have been able to fully reclaim their former stardom.
Until the industry and netizens acknowledge the double standards, we’ll likely continue to see actresses face harsher, more permanent consequences than their male counterparts.