Actor Na In Woo, who has been at the center of a heated military exemption controversy, is making his first official public appearance today!

On January 9, Na In Woo is set to attend the press conference for MBC’s new Friday-Saturday drama, Motel California, at the Golden Mouse Hall in Sangam-dong, Seoul. This marks his first major event since news of his military exemption broke, sparking intense public interest in whether he’ll finally address the issue.

Na In Woo recently stirred controversy after it was revealed that he had been exempted from military service. Initially, he received a Grade 4 classification (supplementary service) during his physical examination and was waiting to serve as a social service worker.

However, after three years of waiting without being summoned by the Military Manpower Administration, he became eligible for exemption under the Military Service Act.

According to the law, individuals with a Grade 4 classification who are not called up within three years are automatically exempt. Reports say over 10,000 individuals, including Na In Woo, have received exemptions under this provision since 2019.

Last month, Na In Woo’s agency, Hanada Company, confirmed the news, stating, "Na In Woo received a Grade 4 classification and was waiting for his assignment when he was exempted according to the Military Manpower Administration’s decision. There is nothing further to comment on as this was an administrative decision."

However, the agency did not provide any details about why Na In Woo received a Grade 4 classification in the first place. To add to the speculation, Na In Woo stepped down from the KBS2 variety show 2 Days & 1 Night last June due to enlistment-related concerns, which fueled more questions about his military status.

So far, Na In Woo has not personally addressed the controversy. Fans and the media are eagerly waiting to see if he will break his silence during the press conference. Many are hoping for clarity on the situation, especially regarding the reasons for his Grade 4 classification.

Meanwhile, Motel California is a romantic drama following a woman who grew up in a rural motel and reconnects with her first love 12 years after leaving her hometown. The story promises to bring laughter and tears as the characters navigate love and life while "remodeling" their relationships. Na In Woo plays Chun Yeon Soo, a charming veterinarian who is also the most eligible son-in-law among local farm families.

Stay tuned for updates from the press conference.

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The upcoming SBS drama Love Scout, starring Han Ji Min and Lee Jun Hyuk, is already making headlines—but for all the wrong reasons.

Recent revelations about the show’s co-director, Ham Joon Ho, have sparked controversy. It was revealed that Ham Joon Ho had faced legal issues in 2020 for assault and defamation while intoxicated.

This incident led to disciplinary action within SBS and has raised questions about his involvement in the new project.

On January 13, the production team of Love Scout released an official apology, saying, "We deeply regret causing concern with unpleasant news related to PD Ham Joon Ho."

They confirmed the allegations, stating, "It is true that PD Ham Joon Ho was accused of assault and defamation while intoxicated in early 2020. However, he sincerely apologized to all victims, and the matter was resolved through forgiveness and mutual agreement."

They added, "He also received legal punishment for the incident. Additionally, reports about his prior criminal record from five years ago are unrelated to this case, as they involve a misdemeanor."

The team explained that Ham Joon Ho was suspended from his duties following the incident and spent three years reflecting on his actions before returning to directing. They added, "We kindly ask for viewers’ understanding."

The controversy began after online posts brought up the 2020 incident, sharing a news article from that time. The article described an SBS drama department employee, referred to as “A,” causing a disturbance in Hannam-dong, Seoul, while intoxicated. Police booked “A,” and due to their prior criminal record, an arrest warrant was requested but later denied.

It was later confirmed that “A” was PD Ham Joon Ho. After serving his suspension, he made his directorial comeback with the SBS drama Payback before taking on Love Scout.

Despite the production team's apology, the controversy has cast a shadow over the highly anticipated drama, leaving viewers wondering how it will impact the show’s reception.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds!

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