South Korean actor Jo Byeong Kyu, widely recognized for his prominent roles in hit television series like “SKY Castle,” “Hot Stove League,” and “The Uncanny Counter,” has personally announced plans to pause his acting career later this year to fulfill his mandatory military service.
The revelation came during a feature on the YouTube channel “One Mic,” where the actor discussed his future career trajectory, current stage work, and independent status following his departure from HB Entertainment- the agency he called home for 13 years.
Addressing his departure from his longtime agency, Jo Byeong Kyu reflected warmly on the end of their professional relationship.
Describing the transition, he remarked on their parted path, saying,
“I was with one company for about 13 years, and we had a really beautiful goodbye.”
He expressed deep appreciation for the firm’s support across both prosperous and challenging moments throughout his career, noting that he maintains open, positive contact with them.
Currently operating without agency representation, he revealed a cautious approach toward signing with new management prior to enlistment, explaining,
“Since I’m going to the military soon, I’m also thinking that maybe I should enlist first and join a company after I return.”
Theater Finales, KATUSA Attempt, and Ongoing Legal Background
Outline his immediate calendar, Jo Byeong Kyu confirmed that his active performance schedule will draw to a temporary close following two upcoming stage projects.
He is currently appearing in the play “Visit” (also translated as “Visitation”) and plans to follow up with a role in the musical “Opera.” Summarizing his timetable, he stated,
“This year, I’m planning to end my acting activities with the musical ‘Opera’ and prepare to enlist in the military.”
Reflecting on past enlistment attempts, he disclosed that he had previously applied for KATUSA (Korean Augmentation Troops to the United States Army) two years prior, noting,
“Actually, I applied for KATUSA two years ago. I passed the English test, but I didn’t get selected in the lottery.”
Looking ahead, he confirmed he is now planning for regular Army service.
The actor’s upcoming enlistment comes amid a prolonged, high-profile legal dispute surrounding school bullying allegations raised against him in 2021 by an individual identified as A, regarding their time studying abroad in New Zealand. Jo Byeong Kyu has consistently denied all claims of school violence.
After he and his former management filed a multi-billion won defamation lawsuit, the first-instance court ruled against them citing insufficient proof that the published posts were unequivocally false.
His legal team has appealed the ruling, asserting that school records in New Zealand contain no disciplinary findings or bullying documentation regarding the actor.
As the appeal proceeds through the legal system, Jo Byeong Kyu remains focused on wrapping up his remaining theater commitments before stepping away for military duty.
