Director Recalls Yoo Ah-in’s Words at Father’s Funeral: “I’ve Committed a Crime that Deserves Death”
Director Kim Hyung-joo, known for his work on the upcoming film “The Match”, recently shared his thoughts on Yoo Ah-in’s ongoing drug scandal and their last encounter.
During an interview held at a café in Jongno, Seoul, on March 21, Kim was asked whether he had contacted Yoo Ah-in following his high-profile drug controversy. The director responded, “No, we haven’t been in touch. Neither of us is the type to maintain close contact.”
However, Kim recalled seeing Yoo Ah-in last year at his father’s funeral, saying, “Given the circumstances, we couldn’t have a long conversation, but he told me, ‘I’ve committed a crime that deserves death. I have nothing to say.’”
When asked whether Yoo Ah-in had watched the completed version of “The Match”, Kim stated that the actor had only seen an edited version of his scenes but not the final cut. He explained, “We held a staff screening in the winter of 2022, but I remember he was overseas at the time.”
Meanwhile, “The Match”, originally set to premiere on Netflix, faced an indefinite delay in 2023 after Yoo Ah-in’s drug use allegations surfaced. This led to Netflix dropping the film, but By4M Studio later acquired distribution rights and recently confirmed a theatrical release on April 26.
At the March 19 press screening of “The Match” at CGV Yongsan I’Park Mall, Kim acknowledged Yoo Ah-in’s legal troubles, stating, “When we cast him, it felt like I had the whole world. But in reality, there was a lot of pressure.” He added, “As a lead actor, his actions were irresponsible and disappointing. He is now facing the consequences of his mistakes as a member of society.”
“The Match” is based on the true story of two legendary Go players, Cho Hun-hyun (played by Lee Byung-hun) and Lee Chang-ho (played by Yoo Ah-in). It explores their mentor-student relationship and fierce rivalry, shaping the history of Korean Go.
