Korean Actor Bae Seong-woo Breaks Down in Tears During Emotional TV Comeback After 5-Year Exile

In May 2023, acclaimed Korean actor Bae Seong-woo made his long-awaited return to the variety show scene after a 5-year self-imposed exile. The 50-year-old, known for his roles in films like "Parasite" and "The Handmaiden," appeared on the comedy program "SNL Korea Season 7," where he was visibly emotional and overwhelmed by the audience's warm welcome.

Bae's exile began in November 2020 after he was caught drunk driving in Seoul's Gangnam district, with a blood alcohol level above the legal limit for license revocation in South Korea. The incident forced him to leave the popular SBS drama "Fly Dragon" midway through production. In January 2021, he was fined 7 million Korean won for violating traffic laws.

South Korea has some of the world's strictest drunk driving regulations, with a blood alcohol limit of just 0.03% for license suspension and 0.08% for revocation. Celebrities in the country are held to exceptionally high moral standards, and such incidents often result in career-ending consequences, regardless of legal penalties.

During his "SNL Korea" appearance, Bae bowed deeply to the audience, conveying his remorse and gratitude. He admitted to feeling nervous and anxious, covering his face with his hands and visibly tearing up as he spoke about the warm reception. Bae's gradual return to the public eye began in May 2024 with a press conference and a Disney+ series appearance, but his variety show comeback has sparked mixed reactions among Korean audiences.