Actors who appeared at the VIP screening of the movie Hope have become more of a hot topic than the film itself.
On July 13th, the VIP screening of director Na Hong Jin’s new film Hope took place at Megabox COEX in Gangnam, Seoul. Top stars including Hwang Jung Min, Jo In Sung, Jung Ho Yeon, Lee Jung Jae, Yum Jung Ah, Cha Tae Hyun, Hyeri, and BLACKPINK’s Jisoo and Rosé attended, showcasing a dazzling lineup. However, what really set the online community abuzz were unexpected faces, not the film.
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HOPE VIP Premiere#YooAhIn#유아인 pic.twitter.com/RaMQokPkN9
— Phoebe Lee (@annyeongitsbie) July 13, 2026
The biggest focus was on actor Yoo Ah In. Having halted activities due to habitual drug use charges, Yoo quietly attended the screening wearing a black shirt and a low-brimmed hat. Though he did not pose on the photo wall, images of him at the event quickly spread across social media and online communities, stirring real-time attention. Especially notable was his appearance accompanied by director Jang Jae Hyun, rumored to helm his next project Vampire, fueling speculation about his comeback plans.
Yoo Ah In was not alone. Kwak Do Won, who had virtually stopped working following a drunk driving controversy, also appeared at the event. Instead of the official photo wall, he was seen warmly greeting film industry colleagues and actors inside the screening room after a long absence. He reportedly attended in support of director Na Hong Jin and his connection with Hwang Jung Min from The Wailing, drawing attention as it marked his return to official film events after a lengthy hiatus.
Additionally, actress Lee Ji Ah made a rare public appearance, drawing attention. When photos and videos of Lee Ji Ah on the photo wall circulated online, reactions flooded in, saying, “Her vibe is very different,” “I didn’t recognize her at first,” “She looks much younger,” and “Her image has softened a lot.” The stark change in appearance even sparked rumors of plastic surgery, fueling further discussion.
In the end, the VIP screening of Hope generated more buzz about the current status of attending actors as about the movie itself. Interest in Yoo Ah In’s comeback, Kwak Do Won’s rare public presence, and Lee Ji Ah’s changed aura combined to make this event garner hotter attention than the film.