Yoo Young Jae Jailed: 5-Year Sentence for Molesting Ex-Wife Sunwoo Eun Sook’s Sister Shocks K-Drama Fans

On April 16, the Suwon High Court held the final hearing for Yoo Young Jae, a well-known broadcaster and former news anchor, who is facing serious charges of forcible molestation. The 62-year-old was accused under the Act on Special Cases Concerning the Punishment of Sexual Crimes, and the prosecution has demanded a five-year prison sentence, just like in the earlier trial.

Yoo Young Jae and Sunwoo Eun Sook’s connection

Yoo Young Jae is the ex-husband of veteran actress Sunwoo Eun Sook, who is 66 years old. According to reports, the victim in this case is Sunwoo Eun Sook’s older sister.

In the first trial held on January 23, the court sentenced Yoo to two years and six months in prison, along with 40 hours of a sexual violence treatment program. He was also banned from working in any place that involves children, adolescents, or individuals with disabilities for five years. Although he had remained out of jail during the trial, Yoo was taken into custody immediately after the first verdict.

During the final hearing, Yoo Young Jae addressed the court, saying, “I deeply bow my head and apologize to the victim who has suffered. I have reflected deeply while in prison. I regret my poor judgment that led to this situation.”

According to the findings, Yoo made unwanted physical contact with Sunwoo Eun Sook’s sister on five separate occasions in 2023, which the court considered forcible molestation.

A marriage that shocked many

The story of Yoo Young Jae and Sunwoo Eun Sook first drew attention in 2022 when they met and connected over their shared Christian faith. The couple got engaged just eight days after meeting and legally registered their marriage two months later. Their fast-moving relationship became a hot topic, but sadly, the couple divorced in April 2023.

Alongside the criminal case, there is also a separate civil lawsuit for annulment of the marriage, filed by Sunwoo Eun Sook. However, this lawsuit is not connected to the current criminal proceedings.