Seoul - Oh Young-soo, the 79-year-old actor known for his role in the hit Netflix series "Squid Game," has been convicted of sexual misconduct by a local court in South Korea. The Seongnam Branch of the Suwon District Court announced on Friday that Oh was found guilty of assaulting a woman in 2017.

Oh gained international recognition in 2022 when he became the first South Korean actor to win a Golden Globe Award for best supporting actor in a series, thanks to his portrayal of a seemingly vulnerable old man in the dystopian thriller. However, his career has now been marred by this legal case.

According to the court, Oh has been sentenced to eight months in prison, but the sentence has been suspended for two years. In addition, he has been ordered to complete 40 hours of classes on sexual violence as part of his punishment.

The court cited the victim's own records of the assault, which were consistent with her claims. The judge, Jeong Yeon-ju, stated that her statements appeared to be genuine and reflected an actual experience of the incidents.

The assaults occurred in 2017 while Oh was staying in a rural area for a theatre performance. The incidents took place on a walking path and in front of the victim's residence. The woman involved has chosen to remain anonymous.

This case highlights a disturbing pattern of sexual assault allegations within South Korea's film industry. Notable figures like late filmmaker Kim Ki-duk and actor Cho Jae-hyun have also faced similar allegations in recent years.

While the success of "Squid Game" has propelled South Korea's influence on global popular culture, this incident serves as a reminder that the industry must address and confront these troubling issues. The court's decision reflects a commitment to justice and sends a clear message that any form of sexual misconduct will not be tolerated.

Oh's conviction adds another chapter to the ongoing dialogue surrounding sexual assault and the need for accountability in the entertainment world. As South Korea continues to make its mark on the global stage, it is crucial that the industry promotes a safe and respectful environment for all its participants.