From Viral Fame to Public Outrage: The Controversial Return of Korean TikTok Star Ox Zung

In the fast-paced world of social media, fame can come overnight — but so can downfall. Seo Won Jeong, known to millions as Ox Zung or Mama Boy, soared to viral stardom on TikTok with over 54 million followers, captivating fans with his comedic sketches and unique charm. However, his meteoric rise was abruptly halted by a serious legal scandal involving sexual assault charges, shaking the influencer community and sparking intense public debate.

Seo Won Jeong’s ascent on TikTok was nothing short of spectacular. His signature shout of “Mama!” became a viral catchphrase, his videos racking up millions of views and cementing his status as one of South Korea’s most beloved non-celebrity influencers. His success earned him recognition on Forbes Asia’s 30 Under 30 list in 2023, a testament to his cultural impact.

Fans admired not only his humor but also his relatability — the way he brought everyday moments to life with a comic twist. For a time, Ox Zung seemed unstoppable, a beacon of joy and creativity in the digital age.

In December 2023, the narrative took a dark turn. Seo was arrested alongside another man following accusations of sexual assault made by a woman identified as “Woman B”. The victim reported waking to unsettling recording noises and later realized she had been assaulted. Seo was identified as “Influencer A” in the case, igniting widespread outrage across social media and beyond.

The initial charges carried the potential for a seven-year prison sentence. The public and fans were stunned. Many struggled to reconcile the comedian they adored with the serious allegations now clouding his name.

The legal proceedings that followed were complex and highly scrutinized. In April 2025, Seo was sentenced to three years and six months in prison. However, the story did not end there. A second trial reduced the charge from gang rape to attempted rape due to insufficient evidence, leading to a suspended sentence of one year and six months, suspended for two years. It was reported that Seo reached an agreement with the victim.

This outcome sparked fierce debates. Critics argued that the reduction in charges and the leniency of the suspended sentence reflected systemic problems within the legal framework for handling sexual assault cases in South Korea.

After months of silence and hiatus from social media, Seo made a surprising return to TikTok in July 2025. His comeback video was accompanied by a lengthy apology where he claimed full cooperation with the investigation and expressed remorse for the incident.

However, the apology was met with mixed reactions. While some fans held out hope for redemption, many others expressed outrage, questioning how an individual with such grave allegations and a controversial legal outcome could resume their online career so swiftly.

Seo’s return sparked a wave of backlash. Social media platforms buzzed with heated discussions about justice, accountability, and the role of influencers in society. Many questioned the fairness of the legal outcome, highlighting how celebrity status can sometimes shield individuals from full consequences.

The incident has ignited broader conversations about how sexual assault cases are handled in South Korea and whether the current justice system adequately supports victims.

The Ox Zung saga illustrates the powerful, yet perilous influence of social media fame. In a digital age where content creators can command audiences numbering in the millions, their personal actions carry significant weight and repercussions.

This case underscores the importance of ethical responsibility among influencers, who hold considerable sway over impressionable fans. The swift return of Seo also raises questions about how the online community and platforms should respond to creators embroiled in serious controversies.

Seo Won Jeong’s story is a cautionary tale about the fragility of fame and the complex interplay between celebrity, justice, and public opinion. It highlights the urgent need for more robust support systems for victims and calls for greater transparency and accountability in legal proceedings.

For fans and followers, it serves as a reminder to critically engage with the personalities they admire, recognizing that behind every viral video is a real person capable of both great talent and grave mistakes.

The return of Ox Zung to the social media spotlight amidst unresolved controversies is a stark reminder of the challenges society faces in balancing forgiveness, justice, and the power of influence. While Seo continues to maintain a significant following, his legacy remains complicated by his past actions and the unresolved feelings of the public.

As the digital world evolves, so too must the standards by which influencers are held accountable. Seo Won Jeong’s journey prompts reflection not only on his personal choices but also on the collective responsibility of society, platforms, and fans to demand integrity and justice in the realm of online fame.