Actor Yoo Ah In made his first major appearance at a film event since suspending his entertainment activities following drug-related charges. His presence at the VIP screening of the upcoming film “HOPE” attracted attention and renewed discussions about his possibility of returning to the entertainment industry.
According to reports on July 14, Yoo Ah In attended the VIP screening of director Na Hong Jin’s new film “HOPE” at Megabox COEX in Gangnam, Seoul the previous day. The event attracted many stars, including Lee Jung Jae, Yum Jung Ah, Cha Tae Hyun, Shim Eun Kyung, Park Hae Soo, and BLACKPINK members Jisoo and Rosé.
Yoo kept a low profile during the event. Videos shared online showed him wearing an all-black outfit with a blue baseball cap pulled low over his face.
Unlike the other guests, he did not stop in front of the photo wall for journalists and entered directly into the room with a glass in hand. However, he appeared more relaxed inside the venue. In one video, Yoo was seen meeting an acquaintance and greeting him with a smile.
According to AllKPop, he allegedly said, “It’s been a while,” before sharing a hug, and the moment quickly spread throughout online communities and social media.
Yoo Ah In’s possible return is attracting attention
The actor’s appearance also drew attention to reports linking him to director Jang Jae Hyun, who also attended the screening.
Jang, known for directing the hit film “Exhuma,” is reportedly preparing a new Korean vampire film titled “Vampire,” and Yoo Ah In has been mentioned as a possible cast member. However, Yoo’s involvement in “Vampire” has not been confirmed. Distributor NEW had previously said that casting discussions were ongoing with several actors, including Yoo, but no final decisions had been made, KoreaTimes reported.
Yoo Ah In has stayed away from entertainment activities since his lawsuit began. He was accused of repeatedly using narcotics, including propofol, and illegally obtaining sleeping pills under another person’s name.
The Supreme Court later upheld the one-year prison sentence suspended for two years, allowing him to avoid serving the sentence if he complies with the conditions of the sentence.
As a result of the case, Yoo’s exclusive contract with UAA, his 12-year-old agency, expired. Subsequent reports claimed that he was discussing a possible contract with Galaxy Corporation, but neither party officially confirmed a new agency deal.
