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The Ji Soo 880 million won compensation in 2026 ruling has once again placed the spotlight on one of the most talked-about controversies in recent K-drama history. The legal battle, which began after actor Ji Soo exited the drama River Where the Moon Rises in 2021, reached a significant point in February 2026.
In the latest appellate decision, the court reduced the damages amount from 1.42 billion won to 880 million won, but it upheld the ruling that the former agency must compensate the production company.
This article breaks down the case, the court’s reasoning, what it means for the industry, and where Ji Soo stands today—using only verified developments from Korean legal and entertainment reports.
Background: Why Did Ji Soo Leave the Drama?
In early 2021, Ji Soo faced allegations of school violence (bullying) from his past. The accusations spread quickly across online communities and media outlets. Soon after, Ji Soo issued a public apology and acknowledged past misconduct.
At the time, he played the male lead in River Where the Moon Rises. The drama had already completed a significant portion of filming through pre-production.
As the controversy intensified, Ji Soo withdrew from the drama. He also terminated his contract with his agency, KeyEast.
For viewers, this looked like sudden casting news. For the production team, it created a financial earthquake.
Why Did the Production Company File a Lawsuit?
The production company, Victory Contents, argued that Ji Soo’s exit caused serious financial damage.
Here’s why:
- The drama followed a pre-production model.
- Most filming had already been completed.
- Sets, locations, staff salaries, and actor fees had already been paid.
- Overseas distribution contracts had been signed.
Because Ji Soo left after filming was nearly finished, the production team had to reshoot episodes 1–6 with a new lead actor. That meant rebuilding sets, rehiring staff, and covering additional operational costs.
Victory Contents filed a lawsuit seeking approximately 3 billion won in damages, citing both direct and indirect losses. Direct losses included production costs. Indirect losses reportedly included rating fluctuations and complications with overseas buyers.
Negotiations between the company and KeyEast failed, which led to formal court proceedings.
First Trial vs. Second Trial: What Changed?
In the first trial, the court ordered KeyEast to pay 1. The damages amount to 42 billion won.
In February 2026, the Seoul High Court reduced that amount partly. The appellate court lowered the compensation to 880 million won but still found the agency responsible.
The court didn’t share the detailed reasons behind the reduction with the public. Appellate courts often take another look at how compensation is calculated, who is responsible, and the details in contracts when making adjustments.
The main point is still clear:
The court ruled that the agency was legally responsible for the damages caused by the actor’s withdrawal.
The reduction doesn’t get rid of liability; it just changes the amount of money involved.
Who Replaced Ji Soo in River Where the Moon Rises?
After Ji Soo’s departure, actor Na In-woo stepped into the male lead role of On Dal.
The production team re-filmed early episodes to maintain narrative continuity. Actress Kim So-hyun continued her role as Princess Pyeonggang without interruption.
The drama completed its broadcast run with Na In-woo as the official lead. Many viewers praised the team’s swift response under difficult circumstances.
Still, the financial burden remained—and the legal battle followed.
What Does the 880 Million Won Ruling Mean for the Industry?
The 2026 ruling on Ji Soo’s 880 million won compensation goes beyond just one actor and could have wider effects.
1. Agencies are dealing with more risk than before.
Entertainment agencies handle artists, but this case shows how financial risks come up when controversies hit ongoing projects. Agencies can now make contract clauses about personal conduct and liability stronger.
2. Pre-production models often come with some weaknesses.
Pre-producing dramas can make scheduling easier, but it also means taking on more financial risk. When a lead actor leaves in the middle of filming, the costs can go up pretty fast.
3. Reputation can have real legal consequences.
These days, news and controversies spread in no time thanks to the digital era. This case shows how reputational issues can turn into legal disputes worth billions of won.
The ruling sends a clear message: handling crises in entertainment now means facing legal responsibility.
Did Ji Soo Personally Pay the Compensation?
No court ruling states that Ji Soo personally pays the 880 million won.
The lawsuit targeted KeyEast, his agency at the time of the incident. Agencies typically carry contractual responsibility regarding their artists’ participation in productions.
However, contract details between Ji Soo and his former agency remain private.
What Is Ji Soo Doing in 2026?
After the 2021 controversy:
- Ji Soo completed his mandatory military service.
- He stepped away from mainstream television projects.
- In October 2023, he announced through his YouTube channel that he resolved misunderstandings with the first accuser.
He expressed his intention to return to acting. However, as of early 2026, no major Korean television comeback has been officially confirmed.
Industry experts often describe such returns as gradual rather than immediate. Digital platforms sometimes serve as stepping stones before large-scale broadcasting projects.
Whether Ji Soo secures a major drama role again remains uncertain.
Public Reaction: Mixed but Measured
Public reactions remain divided.
Some viewers believe individuals deserve second chances after reflection and accountability. Others argue that public figures must meet higher ethical standards.
Importantly, the court case focused on contractual damages—not criminal charges.
That distinction matters. Legal liability in production contracts differs from public moral judgment.
Why This Case Still Matters in 2026
Entertainment controversies often fade quickly. This one did not.
The reason? Money and precedent.
An 880 million won ruling sends a signal across the Korean entertainment ecosystem:
- Production companies may tighten insurance policies.
- Agencies may add stricter morality clauses.
- Investors may demand risk assessments before funding projects.
In simple terms, this case reshaped behind-the-scenes business conversations.
And let’s be honest—when billions of won enter the chat, everyone pays attention.
The Bigger Picture: Accountability in Korean Entertainment
South Korea’s entertainment industry thrives globally. K-dramas dominate streaming platforms, and international investments continue to rise.
With global attention comes scrutiny.
Studios now operate under intense media visibility. A single controversy can disrupt marketing campaigns, distribution deals, and streaming contracts.
The Ji Soo case shows how personal history, corporate contracts, and public perception intersect in today’s industry.
It also highlights how courts evaluate financial damage in creative sectors—an area that often involves intangible losses like ratings and reputation.
Final Thoughts
The Ji Soo 880 million won compensation 2026 decision closes a significant chapter in a controversy that began five years ago.
The appellate court reduced the damages but upheld responsibility. The production company secured partial financial relief. The agency faces the legal outcome.
Meanwhile, Ji Soo’s career path remains uncertain.
This case reminds us that in the entertainment world, actions—past or present—carry consequences beyond headlines.
Behind every episode viewers watch, there are contracts, investments, and legal frameworks holding everything together.
And sometimes, those frameworks take center stage.
