Director Kim Hyung-joo of the film 'The Match' honestly confessed the mental struggle he faced due to the "Yoo Ah-in risk."
On the afternoon of the 19th, at a press screening and media conference for 'The Match' held at Yongsan CGV in Seoul, Director Kim Hyung-joo addressed the challenges faced due to the delay in the film's release following Yoo Ah-in's drug use controversy. He expressed his feelings indirectly, saying, "That's something I'd like to discuss that over a drink."
Director Kim Hyung-joo shared, "Lee Byung-hun was cast first. Then, Yoo Ah-in was cast. It was a mix of joy and pressure," reflecting on his feelings at the time of casting.
He continued, "The Yoo Ah-in controversy is something that could be seen as irresponsible and disappointing for a lead actor. As a member of society, he made a mistake and is facing the consequences. I don't think there's anything more I can add to that," he said carefully.
Regarding the difficulties 'The Match' faced, such as the release delay and distributor change due to the 'Yoo Ah-in risk,' he said, "To borrow a line from the movie, it felt like being trapped in a hellish tunnel. I felt helpless because there was nothing I could do. However, seeing the 'release' as a ray of light at the end of the tunnel was a relief. I'm overwhelmingly happy now," he sincerely responded.
Director Kim Hyung-joo urged potential viewers, saying, "Before the movie was even released, it's been through a lot of pain, so I hope you'll watch the film with a warm and understanding attitude, like applying a healing balm."
'The Match' tells the story of South Korea's legendary Go player Cho Hun-hyun (played by Lee Byung-hun) who, after losing to his student Lee Chang-ho (played by Yoo Ah-in), challenges himself to reach the top once again with his innate competitive spirit. This is Director Kim Hyung-joo's second film, following 'The Sheriff in Town,' and marks the first collaboration between Lee Byung-hun and Yoo Ah-in.
The film is set to hit theaters on the 26th.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)