Actor Yoo Ah-in, whose probation was confirmed following drug use charges, was spotted at the premiere of director Na Hong-jin's new film 'Hope.'
On July 13, various social media platforms and online communities shared videos of Yoo attending the film's screening. The footage shows Yoo, wearing a cap pulled low, arriving with director Jang Jae-hyun of the film 'Burial.' Notably, the video captures Yoo greeting attendees in a relaxed manner.
This sighting has garnered significant attention as Yoo prepares for his return to acting. Previously, he confirmed his participation in Jang's upcoming film 'Vampire.' Although casting rumors first emerged in December 2022, Jang initially denied them before Yoo's involvement was officially announced.
Following the sighting, opinions on Yoo's return have been sharply divided online. Some users expressed disappointment, stating, 'Now I understand why Korean cinema is failing,' and 'There are many talented actors; does it have to be Yoo Ah-in?' Others countered, 'Why is Yoo Ah-in being held to stricter standards than other celebrities involved in drug controversies?' and 'He has been sentenced and punished; shouldn't he be allowed to return?'
Yoo was released from Seoul Detention Center on February 2 after a second trial ruling. He faced charges for using propofol 181 times between 2020 and 2022 and illegally obtaining sleeping pills under another person's name 44 times. He is also accused of smoking marijuana in Los Angeles in 2023 and encouraging others to smoke as well.
In the first trial, he received a one-year prison sentence and was taken into custody. However, the second trial overturned the original ruling and granted him probation, a decision later upheld by the Supreme Court.
The film 'Vampire,' in which Yoo is set to star, is an occult story set against the backdrop of the Russian Orthodox Church, featuring a vampire hunter, a priest, and other intertwined characters. Alongside Yoo, actors Lee Sung-min and Yoon Kyung-ho will also appear. This film marks Jang Jae-hyun's first project since the blockbuster 'Burial' and is expected to serve as Yoo's comeback film.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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