Actor Jung Woo-sung made his first public appearance on Friday night since news broke that he is the father of model Moon Ga-bi's baby, attending the 45th Blue Dragon Film Awards held at KBS Hall in Yeouido, western Seoul.

Whether Jung would attend or not was unclear earlier in the day. He was nominated for Best Actor for his role in historical film "12.12: The Day" (2023), but the public backlash regarding his private life had raised doubts over whether he would make an appearance.


Jung decided to attend the ceremony after discussions with the award ceremony organizers, according to local news outlet Starnews on Friday.

Jung first appeared during the ceremony to present the award for Most Popular Film, given to the film that attracted the largest audience this year. He also received the award for his film "12.12: The Day."

"I stand here today, alongside everyone involved in film '12.12: The Day,' hoping that my personal matters will not leave a stain on the film," Jung said after receiving the award.

"I also want to sincerely apologize for disappointing everyone who has shown me love and support. I will accept all the criticism and carry it with me. As a father, I will take full responsibility for my son until the very end."

The actor did not appear on the red carpet before the main award ceremony.

On Sunday last week, local media outlet Dispatch reported that Jung is the father of Moon's son. The two celebrities are not married.

The following day, local media outlet Ten Asia reported that Jung may have been in a relationship with another woman while Moon was pregnant. In response, Jung's agency released a statement the same day, stating that it cannot confirm matters related to the actor's personal life.

The 45th Blue Dragon Film Awards is broadcast live on KBS2.

BY KIM JI-YE [kim.jiye@joongang.co.kr]