Actor Nam Joo Hyuk spoke about the school violence controversy that arose before his military service.
On July 21st, Nam Joo Hyuk held an interview at a café in Jongno-gu, Seoul, discussing various topics.
Nam Joo Hyuk enlisted in March 2023 and was discharged in September of the following year. Reflecting on his military life, he said, “I naturally have a positive personality. When faced with any situation, I try to adapt quickly. I strive to adapt no matter the environment. Otherwise, I get stressed myself. If the environment can’t be changed, I think quickly adapting to the given situation helps me grow.”
He said he did not worry about being forgotten during his service. “While adapting, I found happiness. Rather than feeling pressure, I was just focused on how tough the upcoming training that day or the next day would be. I got through each day like that,” he recalled.
Nam Joo Hyuk also cautiously addressed the controversy that arose just before his service. In June 2022, he was accused of school violence. At that time, his side denied the allegations as “completely unfounded,” and in 2024, a summary order fined the accuser ₩7.00 million KRW (about $4,740 USD) for defamation over false claims. Despite this, the label of “school violence” still followed Nam Joo Hyuk, and with the allegations not conclusively resolved, he took a break during his military service.
Regarding the controversy, Nam Joo Hyuk said, “The facts are currently being clarified. I’m carefully watching and quietly going through the process. It’s difficult to discuss details here.”
When asked why he doesn’t make a big deal out of clarifying the controversy, he replied, “I’m not the type to show off or draw attention; I’m just letting time pass naturally. The court ruling has been made, and the facts are being corrected.”
On the pressure of returning amid controversy, he said, “I feel pressure every time I film a project. Each time, I approach it with the thought that I have to do my best. It’s hard to say this time was any different. I’ve always put my heart into every project, and I will continue to do so. I hope moments to enjoy good works will come.”