On March 19, 2025, the highly anticipated press conference for the film Seungbu took place at CGV Yongsan I'Park Mall in Seoul, showcasing a gathering of actors and the film's director, Kim Hyung-joo. Among those present was acclaimed actor Lee Byung-hun, who stars as the legendary Baduk player Jo Hun-hyun, and Yoo Ah-in, who has recently garnered attention due to his ongoing legal issues surrounding drug use.
Yoo Ah-in, who previously received a one-year prison sentence for drug use, was released after five months following a reduced sentence of one year imprisonment with two years of probation. This controversial background has cast shadows over the film's release, which had initially been set for 2023 via Netflix but was postponed due to the investigation and legal proceedings involving Yoo.
At the event, Lee Byung-hun described his feelings toward working with Yoo Ah-in, stating he was both curious and eager to see how their collaboration would unfold. "When I first heard about the casting for Seungbu, I was very excited. I thought, 'We will definitely enjoy filming together,'" Lee remarked. As they engaged in the project, however, he found Yoo Ah-in more reserved than expected. Lee explained that he hoped to get to know his younger co-star better but acknowledged that time for casual interaction was limited due to the busy filming schedule.
Despite the challenges, Lee expressed admiration for Yoo’s dedication on set, saying, "In terms of depth in role preparation and rehearsal, I saw very serious traits come out, which made it easier to immerse ourselves in the character roles." This aspect speaks volumes about how professional integrity can shine through difficult personal circumstances.
The film Seungbu tells the story of Jo Hun-hyun's journey as he attempts to reclaim his status in the Baduk world after suffering a defeat against his disciple, played by Yoo Ah-in. Lee noted the film would delve into the dynamic relationship between mentor and mentee, depicting their struggles and triumphs in a heartfelt narrative about perseverance in competition.
Director Kim Hyung-joo, reflecting on the film's journey to release, also conveyed relief and joy at finally being able to share the film with audiences. He noted, "There were many ups and downs, but ultimately, I am thrilled that we can finally present it in theaters. I am grateful for that." He further emphasized that his goal during the film's production was to make the film accessible to viewers unfamiliar with Baduk, ensuring the storytelling does not alienate audiences.
The press conference also highlighted the film's significance not just as a cinematic piece but as a portrayal of real-life events in the Baduk community. Lee Byung-hun expressed a keen interest in portraying a true story, saying, "It was dramatic to consider that this actually happened—these two legends traversed such a journey within the echelons of Baduk." His reflection on how to convey the emotional highs and lows while playing a character deeply rooted in a competitive sport demonstrates Lee's commitment to capturing the spirit of Jo Hun-hyun.
Adding a personal touch, Lee touched upon his previous role in the drama All In, where he played a gambler, drawing a line of connection between that character and his role in Seungbu. He mentioned a conversation with the real-life figure of Cho Hun-hyun, noting, "I learned from Cho that he was close friends with the character that inspired my role in All In." This convergence of stories showcased Lee Byung-hun's rare chance to explore similar themes of high-stakes competition across different genres.
In summary, Seungbu not only marks a pivotal moment for Lee Byung-hun and Yoo Ah-in, given the latter's recent controversies, but it also symbolizes a deeper narrative about growth, resilience, and the complexities of the human spirit when faced with adversity. The film is set to hit theaters on March 26, 2025, and audiences are hoping that it will deliver both emotionally and artistically, despite the backdrop of Yoo Ah-in's circumstances.
