The film "The Assassin(s)" has canceled all of its second-week theatrical stage greetings, following its withdrawal from events at the Busan International Film Festival.
On October 2, production company Hive Media Corp issued an official notice announcing the cancellation of the second-week stage greetings, stating, "After careful consideration and discussions regarding the various circumstances surrounding the project, we have unavoidably decided not to proceed with the stage greeting schedule originally set for October 3 to October 5."
The production company explained, "While we respect the diverse opinions and interest shown toward the film, we are deeply concerned that the situation surrounding the project is placing an undue burden on the cast and crew far beyond the work itself." They continued, "This difficult decision was reached after extensive deliberation to protect those who participated in the film, while also taking into account the potential impact on audiences visiting the venues and theater personnel."
Hive Media Corp added, "Our hearts are heavy knowing that this sudden cancellation brings disappointment and inconvenience to moviegoers who had made reservations and taken the time out of their schedules looking forward to meeting the cast. As the production company, we will look after the cast, crew, and everyone who joined us on this project with great care, and we will take full responsibility for audience guidance and follow-up measures."
The canceled stage greetings were scheduled to take place over three days at movie theaters across the Seoul metropolitan area and Busan. Director Hur Jin-ho, along with actors Yoo Hai-jin, Park Hae-il, Lee Minho, and Choi Yu-ri, was slated to attend across all three days, with Ryu Hyeyoung also scheduled to participate on October 3.
Earlier that day, the organizers of the 31st Busan International Film Festival announced, "At the request of the production company of 'The Assassin(s)', the scheduled appearances at the 31st Busan International Film Festival opening ceremony and the outdoor stage greeting have been canceled." The "Actors House: Lee Minho" event had already been canceled prior to this announcement.
Inspired by the August 15, 1974 assassination of First Lady Yuk Young-soo, "The Assassin(s)" tracks the suspicions and mastermind behind the historic tragedy. Since its release on September 23, the cast has faced persistent criticism, primarily from conservative groups. A protest notice was also filed to hold rallies outside actor Yoo Hai-jin's private residence from October 3 to October 30. The scheduled start date for the demonstrations coincides with what would have been the first day of the canceled stage greetings.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)