Go Ara, the talented actress known for her role in the popular drama 'Reply 1994,' recently highlighted the strong bond she shares with her fellow cast members.

During an interview with Sporty News at a cafe in Samcheong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Go Ara delved into various topics about her latest movie, 'The Pioneer,' and expressed her deep connection with the 'Reply 1994' cast.

As 2023 marked the 10th anniversary of the drama's broadcast, earlier this year, the cast members gathered for a special reunion, showcasing their enduring friendship. Go Ara revealed, "I took the initiative to organize the reunion myself," and added, "We are still very close and maintain regular contact."

Go Ara further revealed that just the day before, fellow cast member Jung Woo reached out to her. She shared, "Since it's the 10th anniversary, he suggested meeting in the new year. We met because I wanted to, and he asked why we already met when it's only October. We have plans to reunite again at the end of the year, coinciding with the actual 10th anniversary."

Demonstrating her loyalty, she expressed her commitment to maintaining strong relationships not only with her college friends but also with colleagues from different projects.

Go Ara's heartfelt revelation about her enduring friendship with the 'Reply 1994' cast demonstrates the lasting impact and camaraderie created during their time working together.

Fans eagerly anticipate their future endeavors and look forward to witnessing their continued support and connection.

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Director Kim Hyung Joo of The Match has finally shared his thoughts on Yoo Ah In’s involvement in a drug scandal, calling it a major disappointment, especially considering the actor’s role as the lead in the film.

On March 19th, the director attended a press screening and briefing for The Match at CGV Yongsan I'Park Mall in Seoul. Alongside Kim, actors Lee Byung Hun, Ko Chang Seok, Hyun Bong Sik, Moon Jung Hee, and Jo Woo Jin were present to discuss the film.

The Match revolves around the legendary Go player Cho Hun Hyun (played by Lee Byung Hun), who, after a loss to his disciple, decides to challenge the top players again, driven by his competitive spirit. The movie is directed by Kim Hyung Joo.

Lee Byung Hun plays the iconic Go champion Cho Hun Hyun, while Yoo Ah In portrays his disciple, Lee Chang Ho.

During the event, Kim recalled the casting process, saying, "When we were casting, Lee Byung Hun was cast first. Just having him felt like we had the world, and then, getting Yoo Ah In as a bonus made me even happier."

Although filming wrapped up in 2021, Yoo Ah In's drug scandal led to the indefinite postponement of the film’s release. Now, nearly four years later, The Match is finally set to hit theaters on March 26th.

Reflecting on Yoo Ah In's scandal, Director Kim openly shared his frustration, calling it "irresponsible and disappointing" for the actor to make such a mistake as the lead.

He added, “Before being an actor, he made a mistake as a member of society and was punished, so I don’t think there’s much more to say.” Kim smiled bitterly as he spoke.

Describing the challenges he faced due to the scandal, Kim compared the experience to being trapped in "a hellish tunnel."

He said, "There was nothing I could do inside, so it was overwhelming. But now that we have the light of release, it feels like I can breathe. I’m deeply moved."

The director also shared that because Yoo Ah In was the lead actor, the film had to be released as it was, without editing. This has led some people to feel uneasy about watching the film, given the actor’s scandal.

When asked about this, Director Kim said, "Choosing and judging is up to the audience, so I can't force anything. But I hope they watch the movie as it is. I unintentionally got hurt before the release, so I hope people watch the movie warmly, as if applying ointment to a wound."

The Match will officially be released on March 26th.

Source: [1]