Director Kim Hyung Joo of The Match has finally shared his thoughts on Yoo Ah In’s involvement in a drug scandal, calling it a major disappointment, especially considering the actor’s role as the lead in the film.

On March 19th, the director attended a press screening and briefing for The Match at CGV Yongsan I'Park Mall in Seoul. Alongside Kim, actors Lee Byung Hun, Ko Chang Seok, Hyun Bong Sik, Moon Jung Hee, and Jo Woo Jin were present to discuss the film.

The Match revolves around the legendary Go player Cho Hun Hyun (played by Lee Byung Hun), who, after a loss to his disciple, decides to challenge the top players again, driven by his competitive spirit. The movie is directed by Kim Hyung Joo.

Lee Byung Hun plays the iconic Go champion Cho Hun Hyun, while Yoo Ah In portrays his disciple, Lee Chang Ho.

During the event, Kim recalled the casting process, saying, "When we were casting, Lee Byung Hun was cast first. Just having him felt like we had the world, and then, getting Yoo Ah In as a bonus made me even happier."

Although filming wrapped up in 2021, Yoo Ah In's drug scandal led to the indefinite postponement of the film’s release. Now, nearly four years later, The Match is finally set to hit theaters on March 26th.

Reflecting on Yoo Ah In's scandal, Director Kim openly shared his frustration, calling it "irresponsible and disappointing" for the actor to make such a mistake as the lead.

He added, “Before being an actor, he made a mistake as a member of society and was punished, so I don’t think there’s much more to say.” Kim smiled bitterly as he spoke.

Describing the challenges he faced due to the scandal, Kim compared the experience to being trapped in "a hellish tunnel."

He said, "There was nothing I could do inside, so it was overwhelming. But now that we have the light of release, it feels like I can breathe. I’m deeply moved."

The director also shared that because Yoo Ah In was the lead actor, the film had to be released as it was, without editing. This has led some people to feel uneasy about watching the film, given the actor’s scandal.

When asked about this, Director Kim said, "Choosing and judging is up to the audience, so I can't force anything. But I hope they watch the movie as it is. I unintentionally got hurt before the release, so I hope people watch the movie warmly, as if applying ointment to a wound."

The Match will officially be released on March 26th.

Source: [1]

Chungha and Wheein recently opened up about the frustration they’ve been feeling after losing their personal accounts and fan clubs following changes in their agencies.

On March 18th, Wheein uploaded a video on her channel where the three friends, all of whom have moved on to solo careers, shared a lively conversation with fans.

During the video, Wheein smiled and said, "The freedom of not being with an agency," to which Yoon Ji Seong responded, "The best time is when you don’t belong to any agency."

Chungha nodded in agreement, adding, "It feels a bit off when we have an agency like this," sharing a knowing look with Yoon Ji Seong.

Wheein then explained, "The reason I started this new channel is because…" before pausing, clearly frustrated. Chungha, surprised, asked, "Was it a newly created account?"

Wheein quickly responded, "Don’t you know? You made a new channel too," revealing that they were both going through the same issue. Chungha awkwardly smiled as she remembered what happened.

Chungha couldn’t help but joke, saying, "If I start talking about this, I could make five hours' worth of content."

Yoon Ji Seong showed sympathy, asking, "Didn’t they even take your personal account, Chungha?" At this, Chungha screamed in frustration, and when Wheein shared that she had experienced the same, both of them let out exasperated screams.

Yoon Ji Seong asked, "What are they not giving it to you for?" to which Wheein humorously speculated, "Are they keeping it for personal collection?"

Fans are sure to feel for both artists as they navigate this frustrating situation.

Source: [1]