As the weather warms up, university festivals are in full swing in Korea! These events, featuring popular idol groups and artist lineups, attract university students, fans, and the public. However, Hanyang University is facing criticism for its restrictive policy regarding basic human rights for those waiting in line.

On day 2 of the festival, fan-favorite groups like CRAVITY, Choi Yena, and BSS were part of the guest lineup.

Fans and non-university attendees started queuing up early in the morning to secure seats. But people were taken aback by the staff’s announcement to those waiting in line.

One attendee shared their experience:

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“I stood in line late at night! Around 6 AM, they told someone in line that they couldn’t use the bathroom after 7:30 AM, or they’d have to go to the back of the line. Now, at 10:30 AM, if you need to use the restroom, you’re back at the end of the queue. The staff emphasizes safety concerns, but it’s frustrating.”

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Another attendee at the ERICA campus expressed their disbelief:

“Why can’t we use the bathroom after 7:30 AM? The festival doesn’t start until 9 PM! Are we supposed to endure this long? And they’re even strict about it during periods. It’s absurd.”

People were outraged because they hadn’t randomly formed lines; the university had posted online messages about opening the ticket booth line via Instagram.

To make matters worse, tickets were being sold to outsiders for 10,000 KRW (approximately $7.33 USD).

Netizens expressed their frustration:

“Are they doing this to paying attendees?”

“Couldn’t they allow bathroom breaks?”

“Last year, they didn’t even let us use umbrellas in the rain.”

“They’ll learn when they enter the real world after college.”

“Taking people’s money and then restricting their rights—unbelievable!”

“Who came up with this idea? It’s ridiculous.”

In response to the controversy, SEVENTEEN member Hoshi clarified on Weverse:

“We all need to go to the bathroom. And drink a lot of water.”

What are your thoughts on this situation? ?

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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]