Former B.A.P members Bang Yongguk, Jung Daehyun, Yoo Youngjae, and Moon Jongup are gearing up for a comeback on August 8.

MA Entertainment announced on July 2, stating, "Former B.A.P members Bang Yongguk, Jung Daehyun, Yoo Youngjae, and Moon Jongup will return in August under the group name 'Bang Yongguk & Jung Daehyun & Yoo Youngjae & Moon Jongup,' reflecting each member's name."

The group has been sharing their comeback journey through documentary videos on MA Entertainment's official channel. They've demonstrated their professionalism by discussing album concepts and holding production meetings together.

Their upcoming album aims to delight fans eagerly awaiting their return with their distinctive vocals, stage charisma, and powerful performances. They promise to deliver high-quality stages that will captivate fans' hearts and ears alike.

Bang Yongguk & Jung Daehyun & Yoo Youngjae & Moon Jongup debuted in 2012 with the single 'WARRIOR' under B.A.P, followed by hits like 'Badman,' 'ONE SHOT,' and '1004.' They concluded their activities with the eighth single album 'EGO' in 2017.

Last year, all four members showcased their enduring camaraderie by participating in Moon Jongup's mini 2nd album, featuring the title track 'X.O.X Dance Challenge.'

Ahead of their August comeback, Bang Yongguk & Jung Daehyun & Yoo Youngjae & Moon Jongup plan to release various teasers, building anticipation among fans.

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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.

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