Director Park Chan Wook has denied breaching Writers Guild of America (WGA) regulations after being expelled from the guild, stating he never engaged in scriptwriting during the 2023 strike.
In a statement on August 12, a representative from Moho Film explained that as a new WGA member, Park served as writer, director, and executive producer of HBO’s series 'The Sympathizer,' alongside co-executive producer and co-writer Don McKellar. “All scripts for 'The Sympathizer' were completed and filming had begun well before the WGA strike commenced on May 2, 2023,” the representative said.
At the time of the strike, the series was in post-production. “Editing is not considered writing under WGA rules, so it was a permitted activity. During the editing process, HBO proposed changes to certain settings,” the statement continued. “The two held idea meetings to determine whether those changes could be implemented using existing footage. They outlined possible creative approaches, but knowing that new scriptwriting was prohibited during the strike, they did not write or revise any scripts until after the strike ended.”
In December 2024, the WGA launched an investigation into the two writers over alleged strike rule violations. “A hearing panel composed of fellow writers concluded the breach was unintentional and stemmed from a misunderstanding of post-production roles. The panel recommended issuing only a private warning,” Moho Film said. “However, in April 2025, the WGA Board rejected the panel’s recommendation and, without further explanation, expelled both individuals.”
According to Moho Film, Park seriously considered appealing but ultimately decided against it. “Since non-members can still work as writers, and with his focus on completing post-production for 'No Other Choice' in Korea, he could not dedicate the lengthy time required for an appeal,” the company noted. “Park Chan Wook has always shown deep respect for fellow writers and creators, and remains committed to solidarity with them.”
The WGA recently confirmed the expulsion of Park and McKellar, claiming they had co-written 'The Sympathizer' during the strike. Moho Film, however, insists there was no violation.
The 2023 WGA strike, which lasted from May to September, was aimed at opposing the use of AI in scriptwriting, improving working conditions in the global streaming era, and securing greater job stability. Seven writers were disciplined for strike rule breaches, with four appealing their expulsion. Park and McKellar did not appeal.
Known internationally for works such as 'Oldboy' (2003) and 'The Handmaiden' (2016), Park will return in September with his latest project, 'No Other Choice.'
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