KOR
Actor Yoo Ah-in has made his first appearance at an official film event since the Supreme Court confirmed his suspended prison sentence for drug use.
Yoo Ah-in attended the VIP premiere of the movie "HOPE" held at Megabox COEX in Samseong-dong, Seoul, on the afternoon of the 13th.
As it is one of the most anticipated films of the year, numerous stars including Lee Jung-jae, Yum Jung-ah, Cha Tae-hyun, Lee Ji-ah, Yoo Teo, Shim Eun-kyung, and BLACKPINK members JISOO and ROSÉ were in attendance, but Yoo Ah-in drew the most attention.
On this day, Yoo Ah-in did not stand at the photo wall designated for the press. However, his attendance became known after he was spotted by witnesses at the venue and captured in YouTube videos.
Yoo Ah-in wore a black shirt and pants with his hat pulled down low. Although he minimized his facial exposure, it was not difficult to recognize him. It is reported that he accompanied director Jang Jae-hyun, who directed "The Priests" and "Exhuma," to the premiere.
The two are known to be working together on the film "Vampire." Regarding this, the investment and distribution company NEW stated, "It is true that we are in discussions, but nothing has been confirmed," remaining cautious. However, as they attended the official event together, speculation regarding his casting has gained more weight.
Yoo Ah-in is facing public opinion questioning whether his return is "too early," as rumors of his comeback have surfaced about three years after the drug use controversy. Amidst this, his appearance at an official film industry event has drawn the eyes of both industry insiders and the public.
Yoo Ah-in halted all activities after his drug use case was uncovered in early 2023. He was charged with using medical propofol and other substances 181 times between September 2020 and March 2022, illegally purchasing and being prescribed approximately 1,100 sleeping pills under other people's names 44 times between May 2021 and August 2022, and smoking marijuana in the United States three times with an individual named Choi in January 2023, as well as abetting others to smoke. In July of last year, the Supreme Court confirmed a sentence of one year in prison, suspended for two years, and a fine of 2 million KRW.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)
