'Habitual drug use' Yoo Ah-in has finally had a tough few years, and the movie 'Victory' is just about to be released.
On the afternoon of the 19th, a press screening for the movie 'Victory' took place at CGV Yongsan I Park Mall in Seoul. Attendees included lead actors Lee Byung-hun, Ko Chang-seok, Jo Woo-jin, Moon Jeong-hee, Hyun Bong-sik, and director Kim Hyung-joo.
The movie 'Victory' (directed by Kim Hyung-joo, provided and distributed by BiPoM Studio Co., Ltd., produced by Film Company Wolgwang Co., Ltd., co-produced by BH Entertainment) depicts the story of South Korea's top Go legend Cho Hun-hyeon (Lee Byung-hun) challenging again for the top after losing to his disciple Lee Chang-ho (played by Yoo Ah-in) due to his innate competitive spirit.
Director Kim Hyung-joo said, 'I thought 'Victory' should be easy to watch even for those who don’t know Go. After many ups and downs, I was able to finally bring it to the world, and I am just happy and overwhelmed.'
The casting phase generated significant buzz with the pairing of acting masters Lee Byung-hun and Yoo Ah-in. However, after filming finished in April 2021, the release became uncertain due to Yoo Ah-in's drug incident during post-production. Lee Byung-hun's agency, BH Entertainment, not only starred in the project but also participated in its co-production.
Previously, Yoo Ah-in was indicted last October for allegedly habitually using medical propofol, among other drugs, 181 times under the guise of sedation for cosmetic treatments at hospitals around Seoul from September 2020 to March 2022.
In the final statement of the second trial in December last year, he said, 'I disappointed my colleagues and people who trusted me infinitely, and I hurt many who loved me beyond measure. It was a betrayal.' He continued, 'It’s still hard to bear the shame and guilt, but I cautiously appreciate the opportunity for reflection and will do my utmost for correction and recovery.' He added, 'I will not repeat my foolishness. I earnestly ask for the opportunity to demonstrate my determination for learning and a new life in society.'
On the 18th of last month, the 5th Criminal Division of the Seoul High Court sentenced Yoo Ah-in (real name Eom Hong-sik) to one year in prison, with a two-year probation and a fine of 2 million won for violations of the Narcotics Control Act, marijuana smoking, incitement, and evidence destruction.
While his one-year prison sentence from the first trial was overturned and reduced, the court stated, 'It seems the defendant committed the crime while suffering from prolonged life impairment and depression, and it appears that he has largely overcome his drug dependence and vowed not to reoffend.'
Additionally, considering he has reflected on his actions during over five months of detention and has no previous offenses of a similar nature, the court added, 'After considering various sentencing factors such as the motives, means, results of the crime, and circumstances after the crime, we acknowledge that the sentence imposed in the first trial was too severe and unjust.' At the same time, Yoo Ah-in was released from the Seoul Detention Center after five months in custody.
According to the legal community afterward, the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office has filed for an appeal against the second trial ruling that granted probation to Yoo Ah-in for violations of the Narcotics Control Act (psychoactive substances).
At the press conference, director Kim Hyung-joo received questions about Yoo Ah-in, who sparked a 'drug controversy,' and opened the conversation saying, 'If it were up to me, I would prefer to talk over a drink.'
Although it was a great combination of Lee Byung-hun and Yoo Ah-in during the casting phase, the release was delayed for years due to Yoo Ah-in's drug incident just before its premiere. There were many ups and downs, including the platform moving from Netflix to theaters.
The director said, 'Lee Byung-hun was cast first. Just that made me feel like I had the world. Then, with Yoo Ah-in also cast, I felt like I gained something extra. I was happy but also felt a lot of pressure.' He added, 'To be honest, I think it was irresponsible and disappointing, as a lead actor. Prior to being an actor, I committed a wrongdoing as a member of society and am currently being punished for it. I feel I have no further comments to make on that aspect.'
'If I share my personal thoughts, I felt like I was 'trapped in a hellish tunnel,' as mentioned in the lines of the movie. There was nothing I could do in there. It felt overwhelming. Anyway, I can see a ray of light, in the form of a release, towards the exit, which makes me feel relieved. It’s also overwhelming,' he expressed. 'Not only me, but the actors and staff involved have been waiting for this release. I remember the faces that went through hardships. Emotions are all mixed up.'
In response to audiences who view the work negatively, the director stated, 'It’s up to the public to make choices and judgments, so there’s nothing we can do.' However, he also said, 'I hope people will see the film as it is. Unintentionally, it received injuries before its release. Still, I hope they look at it with a warm heart, as if applying ointment.'
Lee Byung-hun, who first worked with Yoo Ah-in, said, 'After being cast in 'Victory,' my expectations grew, and I was very excited. I wondered what it would be like to work with such actors. I also collaborated for the first time with Yoo Ah-in, which intrigued me quite a bit. During filming, I found that Yoo Ah-in was more reserved than I had imagined. We didn’t have many opportunities to talk a lot or discuss scenes together, nor did we have social gatherings. We really didn't get to spend much time getting to know each other. However, we were immersed on set and were very serious when matching our lines. I have vivid memories of being able to get lost in the scene.'
Finally, Lee Byung-hun commented, 'After many ups and downs, it feels like a thrilling and joyful moment to meet the audience on screen as a participating actor. I hope it goes well for everyone involved.' The director added, 'I was wondering what would happen if I cried today, but I thank you for being gentle with the questions regarding Yoo Ah-in. I hope you all experience the actors' performances like a special omakase at the theater.'
Meanwhile, 'Victory' is set to be released on the 26th.
[Photo] Min Kyung-hoon, reporter
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