Actor Jang Dong-ju. [Herald POP]
Actor Jang Dong-ju. [Herald POP]

Actor Jang Dong-ju, who announced his retirement from the entertainment industry after falling into massive debt, is now reportedly setting his sights on Hollywood.

Jang has recently taken part in overseas production auditions in secret and is pursuing global opportunities as part of a new chapter in his career, according to Star News on Tuesday.

He is currently in contact with film and drama series producers in the United States, focusing on building a network to support a Hollywood push.

Jang had previously said: "After I have fulfilled all my responsibilities, if given the chance, I would like to return as actor Jang Dong-ju again."

Jang studied abroad in Auckland, New Zealand, and Minnesota during his childhood. He recently showcased his fluent English during a TikTok live broadcast.

Earlier this year, Jang abruptly announced his retirement from the entertainment industry in May, saying he had been saddled with roughly 4 billion won ($2.94 million) in debt after falling victim to a hacking incident.

At the time, he said: "As of today, I am stepping down from my life as an actor. Although I am leaving the stage, I will never forget the support you have shown me."

He had since been working to pay off the debt through content creator activities, earning between 30 million and 40 million won. He drew renewed attention and controversy when it was belatedly revealed that his father is the chairman of a mid-sized construction company with decades of history, casting him in a new light as someone from a privileged background.

Alongside this, Jang has been actively expanding into business. After stepping back from acting, he founded his own company and now serves as chief executive of Woosun Group, which has subsidiaries including Woosun Investment and Woosun Stay. He is currently working to accelerate business expansion and attract investment, with a medium- to long-term growth strategy aimed at an initial public offering.

He has said he plans to leverage the company's infrastructure for overseas projects and global content production going forward.

In October, he plans to launch and personally host a live Excel broadcast.


min3654@heraldcorp.com