Yoo Ah-in’s Comeback Gains Momentum as “The Match” Tops Box Office and Surpasses 1 Million Moviegoers in 11 Days

Yoo Ah-in’s film The Match surpassed 1 million theatergoers on April 5, 2025, just 11 days after its March 26 release. The movie has maintained the top spot at the South Korean box office since its debut, with 1,056,921 tickets sold as of April 5. A special video featuring cast members, including Lee Byung Hun, thanking audiences was released to mark the milestone. Lee Byung Hun, who plays Go legend Cho Hun Hyun, wrote “One Million Thanks” in calligraphy during the video .

Legal Challenges and Delayed Release

The Match faced multiple delays due to Yoo Ah-in’s legal troubles. The actor was investigated in 2023 for habitual use of propofol, illegal acquisition of sleeping pills, and cannabis-related charges. In February 2024, he received a one-year prison sentence, later suspended for two years on appeal, alongside fines and mandatory drug rehabilitation . The film, initially planned for a 2023 Netflix release, was postponed and later shifted to theaters. Promotional materials minimized Yoo’s presence, focusing instead on co-star Lee Byung Hun .

Director and Cast Defend Film’s Release

Director Kim Hyung Ju confirmed Yoo Ah-in’s role in The Match remained intact despite the controversy, stating that removing him would disrupt the story’s structure. “The interplay between the primary characters was fundamental to the plot,” Kim said, emphasizing the film’s artistic value over the scandal . Lee Byung Hun praised Yoo’s performance, calling his portrayal of prodigy Lee Chang Ho “impressive” for its calm demeanor and subtle expressions. However, Lee admitted he had not spoken to Yoo since the scandal .

Audience Reactions and Industry Impact

Korean netizens expressed mixed reactions to the film’s release. Some argued that projects completed before an actor’s scandal should still be released, while others criticized the industry for tolerating criminal behavior. Comments ranged from “Whether to watch it or not is a personal choice” to accusations of the film industry “accepting everything—sex crimes, drugs, DUIs” . Despite polarized views, The Match’s box office success suggests audiences are separating the art from the controversy.

Yoo Ah-in’s Upcoming Projects and Career Uncertainty

Yoo Ah-in’s shelved film Hi.5 is now set for a June 2025 release. The superhero film, directed by Kang Hyoung Chul, features an ensemble cast and follows five strangers who gain superpowers. Like The Match, promotional plans for Hi.5 may exclude Yoo’s involvement to avoid backlash . This follows the release of Netflix’s Goodbye Earth in April 2023, where Yoo’s screen time was reduced due to his legal issues. Though the series received poor reviews, his performance was praised .

Legal Proceedings Remain Unresolved

While Yoo Ah-in was released from detention in February 2025 after his suspended sentence, prosecutors have appealed the ruling. The Supreme Court’s final decision on his case is pending, leaving his long-term career prospects uncertain .

Also Read: Korea Box Office Update: “The Match” Dominates, Dethroning “Attack on Titan” and “Mickey 17” in Record Weekend

Source: (MyDramaList)

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