Exhuma director Jang Jae Hyun has shut down rumors that Yoo Ah In will star in his upcoming film, tentatively titled Vampir.
Director Jang spoke to Ilgan Sports on December 17th, stating, “The report that Yoo Ah In is appearing in Vampire is not true. No decision has been made regarding his casting yet.” He added that Yoo has expressed a need for a period of self-reflection. “Yoo Ah In is currently receiving offers for his next project, but he has declined them all. He wishes to take time to look back on himself during a hiatus for the time being,” Jang explained.
Vampir is Director Jang Jae Hyun’s first new project since his massive hit Exhuma. It is described as a religious chase thriller set against the backdrop of the Eastern Orthodox Church. Director Jang teased that the film would be a novel attempt combining horror with classic vampire elements. “I plan to add horror elements rather than espionage or calm, dark action,” he revealed.
Meanwhile, Yoo Ah In faced trial for charges including propofol administration, illegal prescription of sleeping pills and marijuana use from September 2020 to March 2022. In 2024, he was sentenced to one year in prison and a fine of 2 million won, and was taken into court custody. His sentence of two years of probation and a fine was later finalized by the Supreme Court. Yoo has since suspended his acting activities, though reports had surfaced suggesting he was planning a comeback after about three years through Vampir.
Despite the controversy, interest in Yoo Ah In’s return remains high. The actor has been recognized for his outstanding acting skills in dramas such as Hellbound, Secret Love Affair and Chicago Typewriter, as well as films like Veteran, and Burning. He has won Best Actor at the 41st Blue Dragon Film Awards and Best Actor in Film at the 57th Baeksang Arts Awards.
While a collaboration between Yoo Ah In and Director Jang Jae Hyun woul generate significant buzz, his official return remains undecided as the actor has expressed his desire to spend more time in self-reflection. Fans are waiting for his decision and watching his preparations for future acting activities.
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