Director Kim Hyung-joo Addresses Yoo Ah-in’s Controversy Ahead of The Match Release
During a press screening for the film The Match, held on March 19 at CGV Yongsan I-Park Mall in Seoul, Director Kim Hyung-joo articulated his sentiments regarding lead actor Yoo Ah-in, who has recently faced serious allegations related to a drug scandal. The event featured notable cast members, including Lee Byung-hun, Ko Chang-seok, Hyun Bong-sik, Moon Jung-hee, and Jo Woo-jin, as reported by MHN Sports.
A Look into The Match
This film chronicles the journey of the renowned Go master Cho Hoon-hyun, played by Lee Byung-hun, who rediscovers his competitive spirit after being bested by his protégé, Lee Chang-ho, portrayed by Yoo In-ah. The narrative aims to explore the depths of ambition and rivalry within the world of Go.
Director Kim remarked on the casting process, stating, “When casting, senior Lee Byung-hun was cast first. That alone made me feel like I had the world, but I was even happier because I got (Yoo Ah-in) as a bonus.”
Film’s Release Delayed by Scandal
Despite being filmed and completed in early 2021, the release of The Match faced significant delays due to Yoo Ah-in’s legal troubles, arising just a month before its anticipated debut. Nearly four years later, the film is finally set to grace theaters on March 26.
Public Reactions to Yoo Ah-in’s Involvement
The public response has been polarized, reflecting divided opinions among fans regarding the director’s decision to retain Yoo Ah-in in the cast. Some viewers have expressed frustration with his inclusion amid the ongoing scandal.
“Are you seriously not understanding what I’m saying? Are you saying that Knockoff and the other actors are okay to appear because they’re not guilty?”said one fan.
“Personally, I don’t like Lee Byung-hun and Yoo Ah-in, but it seems new that there are more than one or two active drug addicts.”commented another fan.
“Wise decision to not compromise the quality of the film. Good job directornim!”responded another.
Director’s Candid Remarks on the Cast
Director Kim expressed his disappointment over Yoo Ah-in’s actions, labeling them as irresponsible and detrimental to his career. While acknowledging the actor’s missteps, he emphasized the importance of understanding the gravity of the situation.
“To be honest, as a lead actor, he was responsible for a disappointing incident and acted irresponsibly in some ways. I don’t think there’s anything more I can say because he has done wrong as a member of society before he was an actor and he was being punished for it.”
However, he also conveyed a sense of relief at the film’s eventual release, recognizing the potential impact of public perception on the work. He urged the audience to approach the film with an open mind.
“The choice and judgment are up to the audience and I can’t force anything. I just have a difficult request that you watch the movie as it is. The movie was hurt before it even came out into the world, and I hope you can watch it with a warm heart, as if applying an ointment to a wound.”
Yoo Ah-in’s Legal Troubles
Yoo Ah-in is facing ongoing legal proceedings due to his habitual drug use, which includes self-administering propofol over 181 instances between September 2020 and March 2022. Additionally, he unlawfully acquired sleeping pills 44 times from May 2021 through August 2022. Following his second trial, he received a one-year suspended prison sentence along with a fine of 2 million won. Although he was released after five months of detention, prosecutors have indicated plans to appeal the outcome.
As the release date approaches, all eyes are on The Match and its reception amidst such controversies.