Actor Yoon Ji On, known for his role in the popular drama “Love Next Door,” has officially parted ways with his agency and stepped down from an upcoming drama after being involved in a drunk driving incident. The actor issued a public apology, admitting to driving under the influence and expressing deep regret for his actions. The incident has led to significant professional consequences, including his departure from the Channel A drama “Positively Yours.”
Drunk Driving Incident and Apology
On September 16, 2025, Yoon Ji On was booked for driving under the influence of alcohol. According to reports, he was heavily intoxicated and unable to recall his actions clearly. The actor admitted to taking a parked motorcycle without permission and riding it while drunk. The following day, on September 17, 2025, he posted a lengthy apology on his personal social media account, addressing the incident and expressing remorse for his behavior.
In his statement, Yoon Ji On wrote:
“Hello, this is Yoon Ji On. First, I feel heavy-hearted and deeply sorry to be delivering such disgraceful news. On September 16, while heavily intoxicated to the point that I could not even remember my actions, I made the grave mistake of unlawfully riding a parked motorcycle. I have admitted to all charges and am currently assessing the damage caused. Because of my reckless actions, I have hurt and disappointed many people who supported me. I truly have no excuse. I sincerely apologize.”
He further pledged to cooperate fully with the investigation and accept any penalties imposed on him. The post was accompanied by a plain black image, symbolizing the seriousness of the situation.
Departure From Drama “Positively Yours”
As a direct result of the DUI incident, Yoon Ji On withdrew from the Channel A drama “Positively Yours,” an adaptation of a popular webtoon. The drama had already begun filming in July 2025 and was scheduled to conclude production by December 2025, with a planned release in early 2026. Yoon Ji On had completed most of his scenes for the drama, and his sudden exit has forced the production team to consider recasting and reshooting significant portions of the project.
The drama features actors such as Oh Yeon Seo, Choi Jin Hyuk, and Kim Dasom and tells the story of a woman who becomes pregnant after a one-night stand with a stranger, who turns out to be the chairman of her company. The production team stated that replacing Yoon Ji On was unavoidable, despite the progress already made in filming.
Agency Response and Contract Termination
Yoon Ji On’s former agency, IEUM HASHTAG, confirmed that their exclusive contract with the actor had expired on July 6, 2025, and both parties had mutually agreed not to renew it. Although the agency had been assisting him with his work while he searched for new representation, they clarified that they no longer had a management relationship with him at the time of the incident. The agency also acknowledged the DUI incident and supported his decision to step down from the drama.
The agency stated:
“Our exclusive contract with Yun Ji On expired on July 6, and we mutually agreed not to renew. While he was searching for a new agency, we temporarily assisted him with his work, but as of now, we no longer have an exclusive management relationship with him. It is true that Yun Ji On was caught by police for drunk driving on September 16. As a result, he has stepped down from Channel A’s new drama ‘Positively Yours.’”
Career Background and Fan Reactions
Yoon Ji On began his acting career in theater in 2013 and gained recognition through roles in dramas such as “Melo Is My Nature,” “Jirisan,” and “Love Next Door.” His portrayal of Kang Dan Ho, a journalist in “Love Next Door,” earned him widespread praise and increased his popularity among K-drama fans.
The news of his DUI incident has elicited mixed reactions from fans and the public. While some expressed disappointment and concern, others urged him to take responsibility and reflect on his actions. The incident has also sparked discussions about the consequences of drunk driving in the entertainment industry.
Impact on Future Projects
Yoon Ji On’s departure from “Positively Yours” has created uncertainty for the drama’s production timeline. The series was initially planned to air in the first half of 2026, but recasting and reshooting may delay its release. The production team has not yet announced a replacement for Yoon Ji On’s role.
This incident marks a significant setback for the actor, who had been steadily building his career over the past decade. His future projects and professional opportunities remain unclear as he faces legal and personal repercussions for his actions.
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