Actor Yoo Ah-in set for screen comeback while still on probation, drawing backlash

Actor Yoo Ah-in, who received a suspended sentence for habitual drug use, is set to return to the screen for the first time in about three years in director Jang Jae-hyun's new film "Baempir." The announcement has drawn a cold public response, however, as Yoo remains within his probationary period.

Investor-distributor NEW unveiled the casting lineup and a script reading for "Baempir" on Tuesday. Yoo, along with Lee Sung-min, Lee Jun-hyuk, Doi, Yun Gyeong-ho and Choi Hyeon-uk, has been confirmed for the film, with principal photography set to begin this month. The film is targeting a theatrical release in 2028.

"Baempir" is a mystery occult film following an unidentified hitman who, hired by a clergyman, tracks down a mysterious heretical group. The latest work from Jang — who directed "The Priests," "Svaha: The Sixth Finger" and Exhuma — casts Yoo as the hitman pursuing the cult.

The news has prompted a wave of criticism.

Yoo was indicted on charges of habitual use of the medical anesthetic propofol and marijuana smoking, and was sentenced to one year in prison, suspended for two years. His probation runs through July 2027, prompting many to question whether his return is premature.

While the comeback raises no legal issues, critics argue the period of public contrition has been far too short.

Online commenters reacted sharply, with remarks including "Why work with a criminal whose probation isn't even over," "Even if he comes back, he should at least lie low during the suspended sentence," and "Is this a betrayal of the public?"

Director Jang has also drawn criticism for casting Yoo, with comments such as "He thinks nothing of the public," "We made him a director with 10 million admissions and this is what he does next," and "A drug offender making a lightning-fast comeback."

Some voices have expressed anticipation at the pairing of Jang's distinctive occult vision with Yoo's acting ability. Others argue that a work's artistic merit and an actor's performance should be judged separately from personal failings.