Director Kim Hyung Joo, known for directing 'The Match,' recently reminisced about collaborating with lead actor Yoo Ah In.

'The Match' is a narrative-driven drama centered on the historic rivalry between Go Master Cho Hun Hyun and his student, Lee Chang Ho. In an interview with Ilgan Sports, director Kim mentioned, "I'm not one to stay in touch regularly, so I haven't contacted him since the drug scandal. The last encounter I had with Yoo Ah In was at my father's funeral last year."

He further mentioned, "During that meeting, he expressed remorse, saying, 'I've committed an unforgivable sin.' Given the circumstances, we couldn't delve into a lengthy conversation."

Originally slated for a Netflix premiere in 2023, 'The Match' faced setbacks when Yoo Ah In got entangled in a legal issue related to propofol use. Consequently, the distribution approach shifted towards a theatrical release, and the movie eventually premiered on March 26.

Reflecting on the project, Kim Hyung Joo shared, "I have mixed feelings. It was a challenging phase, but it has passed. Initially planned for Netflix, adapting it for cinemas offered a fresh lens on the performers' skills and the intricate details. I am content with the final outcome."

Despite the film's focus on the game of Go, Kim Hyung Joo stressed that "the essence of the story resides in the characters' drama." To ensure inclusivity, he meticulously researched Monthly Go magazines from the 1970s and employed techniques like extreme close-ups and sports broadcast-like cinematography.

In terms of casting decisions, director Kim disclosed, "I first cast Lee Byung Hun. Yoo Ah In's appearance and acting differed considerably from Lee Byung Hun's, but he held his ground against Lee Byung Hun's imposing presence."

He commended Yoo Ah In's portrayal, affirming, "He portrayed the character exceptionally. Despite the setbacks, I don't want controversies to overshadow his performance. As for Lee Byung Hun, although he didn't bear much resemblance to Cho Hun Hyun initially, he impeccably embodied the character once filming commenced."

Recalling the hurdles preceding the film's release, Kim Hyung Joo admitted, "I resorted to drinking as there was little else I could do. It took time to come to terms with the circumstances." Nonetheless, he has now found serenity, expressing, "Yoo Ah In made errors and must confront the repercussions. I wish for his personal restoration."

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