Caught in a Drug Case, Yoo Ah-In is Confirmed to Appear in 'THE MATCH'

Kapanlagi.com - After a long delay due to the drug scandal involving the lead actor, the film THE MATCH is finally confirmed to be released in theaters on March 26, 2025. This decision has surprised many as Yoo Ah In will still appear in the film without any edits.

Director Kim Hyung Ju emphasized that removing scenes with Yoo Ah In would disrupt the story's structure. The film tells the story of the rivalry between two legends of the game of go, namely Cho Hun-hyun played by Lee Byung-hun, and his student, Lee Chang-ho, played by Yoo Ah In.

Initially, THE MATCH was scheduled to be released on Netflix, but the film distributor, BY4M Studio, ultimately decided to release it in theaters. This decision is believed to be a strategy to maintain the essence of the film while also mitigating the controversy surrounding it. Check out the full review:

1. The Yoo Ah In Scandal and Its Impact on THE MATCH

Yoo Ah-In Confirmed to Remain in 'THE MATCH'. (instagram/hongsick)

In September 2024, Yoo Ah In was sentenced to one year in prison for drug abuse. However, after an appeal was filed, the sentence was suspended, and the actor was eventually released.

This case had a direct impact on the film project THE MATCH, which experienced several delays. There was much speculation about the possibility of replacing the actor or re-editing the film to remove Yoo Ah In's role.

2. Director Confirms No Editing of Yoo Ah In

In a press conference in Seoul, director Kim Hyung Ju stated that removing Yoo Ah In from the film was not a feasible option. The core of the film's story revolves around the mentor-student relationship between the two main characters. He hopes that the audience can assess the film as a whole without being influenced by the actor's controversy.

3. From Netflix to the Cinema: Changes in Distribution Plans

Yoo Ah-In Confirmed to Still Appear in 'THE MATCH'. (instagram/hongsick)

Initially, THE MATCH was planned to be released on the Netflix streaming platform. However, after several delays due to the Yoo Ah In scandal, distributor BY4M Studio ultimately decided to release it in theaters.

This decision is referred to as a strategy to ensure the film receives broader appreciation from audiences. Director Kim Hyung Ju also revealed that from the beginning, the film was indeed more suited for the big screen.

4. Yoo Ah In's Challenges in Preparing for the Role

Although his name is now associated with a scandal, Yoo Ah In has undergone extensive preparation for his role as Lee Chang-ho. He studied the techniques of playing go as well as the hand movements used by professional players.

5. Release Schedule and Audience Anticipation

THE MATCH will officially premiere in South Korean cinemas on March 26, 2025. With a combination of an emotional true story and performances from renowned stars, this film is predicted to attract attention from both movie fans and go game enthusiasts.

Although there are still pros and cons regarding Yoo Ah In's presence in this film, many are looking forward to how the story of the mentor and student in the world of go will be presented on the big screen.

That’s the news that Yoo Ah-In is confirmed to still appear in THE MATCH. Stay tuned for more celebrity news. If not now, when?

(kpl/kpc)