The film 'The Match,' starring Yoo Ah In and Lee Byung Hun, is set to premiere in theaters this March after significant delays caused by Yoo Ah In's drug scandal.
Based on the real-life rivalry between Korean Go legends Cho Hun Hyun and Lee Chang Ho, the film was originally planned for theatrical release in 2021 but was later acquired by Netflix. However, Netflix postponed its release indefinitely in 2023 following allegations against Yoo Ah In, including habitual drug use and acquiring illegal prescriptions.
After extensive discussions, the distribution rights were transferred to BY4M Studio, which specializes in handling controversial projects. This marks Yoo Ah In's first film release since the controversy. His other works, such as 'Hi. Five,' remain without release dates, and his screen time in Netflix’s 'Goodbye Earth' was significantly reduced.
Yoo Ah In’s legal battles continued and he received a one-year prison sentence in September 2024. He filed an appeal on December 24, and the appellate court decision is expected on February 18, 2025. 'The Match' will test the public's reception of the actor amidst his ongoing controversies.
Korean netizens are giving mixed reactions towards Yoo Ah In's film release and commented:
"Well, there’s no helping it If we start scrutinizing like this, there won’t be any movies or dramas left to release."
"It was filmed before he caused trouble, so they have to release it. What did the production company do wrong. Whether to watch it or not is a personal choice."
"Now they’re appealing to the public not to watch the movie?"
"Ugh, seriously lol They don’t even care about the public’s opinion and then constantly whine about not having an audience. It’s so annoying."
"Such sanctimonious behavior, constantly patting themselves on the back. It’s nauseating."
"Isn’t he in prison right now? lol. What kind of company is By4M anyway? lol."
"Our film industry accepts everything—sex crimes, drugs, DUIs, prostitution—nothing is off-limits. I sincerely hope it collapses."
"Honestly, I wasn’t into it even with Lee Byung Hun, and now with Yoo Ah In? Come on...lol"
"They have to release it since it was filmed before the incident. What did the production company do wrong? Whether to watch it or not is up to each individual."
"Even if they release it, now is not the time. Since when did people start being so forgiving of actors with criminal records? These comments feel strange."
"Did the staff get paid? If not, they should send the bill to Hong-shik."
"Theaters...? If the staff hadn’t been paid, they couldn’t release the movie because of lawsuits. So, if it’s being released, the staff probably got their pay."
"I thought Yoo Ah In was in prison, no?"
"Well... I guess they have to release it. There must be so many people depending on this. From now on, they should include penalty clauses to recoup production costs if personal scandals cause the project to tank."
"Since it’s already been filmed, there’s nothing that can be done. So many people are involved in making a movie..."
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