Korean actress Ha Young (하영) recently became embroiled in controversy over her great-grandfather, Ahn Sang-ho (안상호), and his alleged "pro-Japanese" activities during the colonial era. As more details about her family's past emerged, the incident escalated, leading to calls from netizens for her removal from her new drama and even a complete boycott of her entertainment activities. Amidst the growing dispute, Ha Young ultimately confirmed her withdrawal from the new season of the popular Netflix K-drama 'Trauma Center' (외상중증센터) on August 31.
With the second season set to begin filming, the production team has officially found a replacement. It was announced today (September 23) that Jeong Ye-in (정예인), 28, a former member of the Korean girl group Lovelyz, is confirmed to join 'Trauma Center' as a new face for seasons two and three, taking over Ha Young's role as the important character Cheon Jang-mi (천장미).
According to Korean media outlet MyDaily, Jeong Ye-in will portray Cheon Jang-mi, a nurse on the severe trauma team, in seasons two and three. As this character is crucial to the drama, the production team previously auditioned multiple actresses, with Jeong Ye-in ultimately being selected. Sources revealed that she showcased impressive acting during her audition, earning the team's approval and securing the role.
Cheon Jang-mi is an indispensable core member of the severe trauma team and will drive the plot alongside lead actors Ju Ji-hoon (주지훈), Choo Young-woo (추영우), and Yoon Kyung-ho (윤경호). Ha Young originally played the role in the first season, and her portrayal was well-received by many viewers.
However, Ha Young recently faced controversy due to her family background. According to Korean media reports, her great-grandfather, Ahn Sang-ho, was revealed to be one of the earliest doctors to practice in the Hanyang (한양) area and was allegedly associated with "Naeseon Ilche" (내선일체) — a Japanese colonial policy advocating for the assimilation of Koreans into Japanese culture — and other pro-Japanese claims and institutions during the Japanese colonial period. The exposure of this information sparked heated debate among Korean netizens and contributed to Ha Young's departure from the drama.
Jeong Ye-in, who is replacing Ha Young, debuted as a member of Lovelyz in November 2014. She began her acting career in 2017, appearing in the web drama 'The Blue Sea' and tvN's 'Criminal Minds,' gradually building her acting portfolio. Since then, she has participated in works across various platforms, including TVING and WATCHA, such as 'Nara the Socialite Wannabe' (나라는 소셜라이트 워너비) and 'Mysterious Chaebol Daughter' (신비한 재벌 따님), as well as Naver Clip's 'The Vending Machine Ghost' (자판귀), continuously challenging herself with different types of roles.
Reportedly, 'Trauma Center' seasons two and three will be produced through simultaneous filming, with official production expected to begin next month. The news of Jeong Ye-in taking on the role of Cheon Jang-mi quickly generated discussion among Korean netizens. Many expressed anticipation for the casting change, leaving comments such as "It suits her well," "This is a great opportunity," and "Wow, daebak! She's perfect for it." Some also noted that since she was officially selected after an audition, her acting should be something to look forward to.
Additionally, some netizens were relieved that the character Cheon Jang-mi was not removed, commenting: "So the character Cheon Jang-mi is continuing, I thought a new character would appear," "It's great that they changed the actress," and "It should have been like this all along, director, wake up." Some even directly stated: "I heard she was chosen after an audition, so her acting shouldn't be too bad, right?"
Overall, after the news of Jeong Ye-in replacing Ha Young broke, Korean netizens' comments largely focused on the "suitability of the role" and "acting performance," expressing anticipation for her official inclusion in 'Trauma Center' seasons two and three.
