On January 6th press screening and press conference for Lad (directed by Lee Sang Deok) was held at CGV Yongsan I’Park Mall in Seoul. Director Lee Sang Deok, Jo Byeong Gyu, and former NMIXX member Jini attended the event.
Set in a near-future dystopia, Lad is described as a neon-noir film where a single love shakes an entire world. Jo Byeong Gyu plays Rohan, a young boss who operates in the “Texas Hot Springs,” a place where crime has become part of everyday life. Jini makes her acting debut as Jane in the film. Lad the release is scheduled for January 14th.
Before the press conference began, the cast and director held a moment of silence to honor the late Ahn Sung Ki, who passed away on January 5, expressing their condolences and promising to remember his lasting legacy.
Jo Byeong Gyu’s appearance at the event attracted particular attention, as it marked his first public activity since news broke last November that he had lost a civil suit seeking about ₩4 billion in damages over allegations of school bullying. Jo Byeong Gyu and his former agency, HB Entertainment, had filed a lawsuit against an individual identified as “A,” who claimed in February 2021 that the actor had bullied them during his time studying in New Zealand.
The plaintiff’s side argued that the allegations were false and had caused severe financial losses, including canceled advertising deals and withdrawn film and drama projects, and sought damages totaling ₩4 billion, including ₩200 million in emotional damages. However, the court ruled that the evidence presented was insufficient to conclude that the allegations were false, dismissed all allegations, and ordered Jo Byeong Gyu’s side to cover the entire cost of the litigation. The actor has since appealed the ruling.
When asked about his return, Jo Byeong Gyu said that he has long admired director Lee Sang Deok’s work and approach as a fan. He explained that after reading the script, he believed in it Lad it had strong potential to attract younger audiences to theaters and found the collaboration enjoyable. He added that working with a relatively young crew made the creative process more engaging, calling the experience memorable and rewarding, while admitting he felt nervous about the impact the film would have on audiences.
Director Lee Sang Deok addressed the controversy over Jo Byeong Gyu’s casting, saying that the actor demonstrated a strong understanding of the character and sincere dedication to the project, which led him to decide to work together without hesitation.
Meanwhile, Jo Byeong Gyu, born in 1996 and close to compulsory military service age, also spoke openly about enlisting. Joking about co-star Yoo In Soo, who is currently serving in the Air Force, he noted that Yoo seemed to be having an easier time than expected. With humor, Jo Byeong Gyu added that Yoo In Soo may already be envisioning his future as a private person, joking that while he is willing to learn more about acting, he has no desire to do so. “Learn” military life from colleague.
Lad will be released in cinemas nationwide on January 14th.
Sources: Nate
