The internet is abuzz with an old photo of LE SSERAFIM's Sakura, one of the most talked-about idols of the moment.

Recently, Korean netizens stumbled upon Sakura's earlier years in the industry, sparking a discussion in online communities.

The original post on an online community highlighted Sakura's appearance during her time in the Japanese girl group HKT48.

The netizen who shared the post remarked, "This is a picture of her when she was promoting in a Japanese girl group. She was incredibly young, it's unbelievable."

The photo from her HKT48 days captivated fans, who couldn't help but marvel at her beauty, despite Sakura being just 14 years old at the time.

Numerous comments poured in, with fans reminiscing about their first impressions and expressing awe at Sakura's visuals:

"This was the first time Sakura was chosen to debut. Haha, she was truly a baby."

"Wow, she looked so young back then."

"She really put in a lot of effort."

"In 2012, she was 14 in Japanese age and 15 in Korean age."

"Wow, she looked like she was 12."

"She resembles an elementary school student. Haha, so adorable."

"Her chubby cheeks were incredibly cute. Haha!"

"Someone even added a gif of Kong-Kkura."

"Even when she was young, she already looked like an idol. Haha!"

"Her eyes are so big, both then and now. Haha, impressive."

What are your thoughts?

Source[1]

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]