Squid Game star O Yeong-su sentenced to one year in prison for indecent assault

South Korean actor O Yeong-su, widely recognized for playing Oh Il-nam (Player 001) in Netflix's Squid Game, has been sentenced to one year in prison after being convicted of indecent assault.

The 80-year-old was initially handed an eight-month prison term with a two-year probation period. However, a more recent court ruling has increased the sentence to one year of imprisonment.

The charges stem from incidents in which O Yeong-su was accused of forcibly molesting a woman on two separate occasions — allegations he has consistently denied.

During a hearing on Thursday, 3 April, prosecutors described O as a seasoned theatre actor with nearly 50 years of experience who had "sexually harassed a junior colleague lacking power within the troupe."

Local media reported that prosecutors claimed the victim had lived in fear both professionally and personally since the events took place. They also criticized O's response, alleging he caused further harm by stating, "I did it with the heart of a father" instead of offering an apology.

Prosecutors highlighted the consistency in the actor's statements since the allegations first emerged, using this to argue for a one-year sentence aimed at supporting the victim's healing and discouraging similar offenses.

In contrast, O Yeong-su's legal team denied all charges, arguing the case relied solely on the victim's testimony, which they said lacked clarity, consistency, and logical detail. They also noted that the actor had only formally responded to the accusations to avoid controversy that could negatively impact Squid Game, which had recently brought him international recognition at the time.

Addressing the court, O expressed deep regret over his situation. "It's humiliating to stand trial at this age," he said. "If I said or did anything inappropriate, I'll accept the judgment. But I don't believe my actions amounted to assault."

He added, "If, during a brief interaction, my careless words or actions caused pain, I'm sorry. In an instant, everything I built in 80 years has crumbled. I feel empty. I just want to return to where I belong."

The accusations date back to 2017, when the actor allegedly hugged and kissed the victim against her will near his home — an incident he has repeatedly denied. The final verdict in the appeal trial is scheduled to be delivered on June 3.