South Korean actor Jo Min-ki, who had been accused of sexually assaulting at least eight women, has been found dead.

The allegations emerged last month, mostly from students at a university where he taught drama, and came amid a #MeToo movement in the country.

Min-ki’s body was found in the basement of the building where he lived in Seoul.

The 52-year-old was due to be questioned by police next week. He mainly had roles in TV shows, but also appeared in a number of films.

The actor initially denied wrongdoing but released a statement on 27 February apologising to his accusers.

“Everything is my fault, and I am the one to blame. I am deeply sorry to all the victims for the pain I’ve caused, and from here on out, I will not avoid the social and legal consequences of my mistakes.” – Jo Min-ki