‘The Match’ Yoo Ah In Holds His Own Against Lee Byung Hun – A Sincere Performance Beyond the Controversy

The Match, the long-awaited film featuring the first on-screen collaboration between top actors Lee Byung Hun and Yoo Ah In, finally gears up for release. Though the two are senior and junior in real life, they deliver a convincing mentor-protégé dynamic in the film.

There’s no dispute when it comes to their acting abilities. Watching the film, one can’t help but feel regret from the director’s perspective that The Match was shelved for nearly four years. Despite having no action scenes, the film brings gripping tension and emotional intensity – all unfolding over a Go board.
Lee Byung Hun plays Cho Hun Hyun, a national hero and Go master who rises to fame after winning an international championship. At a Go event, he meets a young Lee Chang Ho (played by child actor Kim Kang Hoon) and, recognizing his prodigious talent, takes him in as a student and begins training him closely.

Under Cho Hun Hyun’s guidance and through his own efforts, Lee Chang Ho (played by Yoo Ah In) rapidly grows into a formidable player. Eventually, he defeats his mentor in their first official match. The loss deeply shocks Cho, leaving him emotionally devastated.
“Winning is the duty of a professional.”
“Am I your teacher just because we’re at the Go board?”Advertisement
These lines from Cho reflect his inner turmoil – a conflict far more complex than what can be expressed in words. Even audiences unfamiliar with Cho Hun Hyun can feel the weight of his emotions purely through Lee Byung Hun’s subtle facial expressions. His masterful portrayal, right down to Cho’s mannerisms, creates an immersive experience.

The Match explores the competitive and ruthless world of professional Go, the complexities of the teacher-student relationship, and the deep-rooted desire to win. Lee Byung Hun once again proves his exceptional acting prowess, while Yoo Ah In also delivers a well-immersed, emotionally rich performance.
Due to Yoo Ah In’s recent controversies, the film’s release had been delayed, and his appearance was notably absent from the teaser trailers. Nevertheless, the film proceeds without editing out his scenes. Despite the risks, Yoo’s presence is integral to the story – both his and Lee Byung Hun’s evolving emotional arcs are crucial viewing points.
In fact, removing Yoo Ah In’s scenes would have made the film’s narrative incoherent. His performance remains intact, and it’s difficult not to wonder how different the reception might have been if there had been no controversy surrounding him.

Supporting actors Cho Woo Jin, Ko Chang Seok, Moon Jung Hee, and Hyun Bong Shik also deliver excellent performances. Their roles range from providing light humor early in the film to heightening emotional tension in the latter half – each bringing depth to their characters.
For those who lived through Cho Hun Hyun’s era, The Match is sure to be an especially rewarding experience. But even viewers unfamiliar with Go will find it accessible and engaging. Of course, for Go enthusiasts, the film offers even more enjoyment.
Based on the real-life story of Korea’s legendary Go masters Cho Hun Hyun and Lee Chang Ho, The Match brings their rivalry and relationship to life. The film doesn’t require viewers to understand Go to follow along, thanks to the director’s thoughtful approach. Set in the 1980s and 1990s, the production also pays attention to historical accuracy and nostalgic details – making it a treat for fans of that era.

The Match is scheduled to premiere in Korean theaters on March 26. It tells the story of Cho Hun Hyun, Korea’s greatest Go legend, as he faces defeat from his protégé and strives to reclaim his place at the top with his unwavering competitive spirit.