“The Match” Actor Lee Byung Hun Addresses His Troubled Co-Star

Will the movie see success despite the struggles?

In an honest interview held on March 21, 2025 (KST), The Match actor Lee Byung Hun addressed the press question about working with his troubled co-star, Yoo Ah In.

Lee remained unbothered by Yoo’s huge drug scandal, which held back the movie’s premiere for nearly four years. Instead, Lee praised the co-star and commented on the “excellent job” he did with the role.

He was quiet and reserved on set. Looking back, I think it was all part of his process in creating his character. I realized that he was trying not to lose the essence of his character even on set. I believe he did an excellent job portraying his role.

I really enjoyed acting with him. While my character, Cho Hun Hyun, is an outspoken and aggressive player, his character of Lee Chang-ho is a steadfast, defensive figure, like an immovable rock. Acting alongside Yoo Ah In made me think that this stark contrast between our characters would be engaging for the audience.

— Lee Byung Hun

Lee Byung Hun acknowledged that it was tough on everyone involved in the production of the movie when the drug scandal hit—but ended the interview on a playful note, congratulating the director on finally getting it out there.

Everyone involved in the film must have been worried sick, wondering, ‘What if it never gets released?’ And, of course, I believe it was the director who had it the hardest. More than anything, I’m just glad because I really wanted to see the director smile.

— Lee Byung Hun

The Match tells the story of South Korea’s legendary baduk (Go) master Cho Hun Hyun (played by Lee Byung Hun) who, after losing to his protégé Lee Chang Ho (played by Yoo Ah In), challenges himself once again to reclaim his position as the top. After the production having been completed in 2021, it is finally set to premiere on March 26, 2025.