Ryu Jun-yeol Says 'Commenting on Personal Controversy Only Make It Worse... Silence Is Best'

연합뉴스 / 2024-05-23 16:10:41

▲ This image, provided by Netflix on May 23, 2024, shows actor Ryu Jun-yeol starring Netflix original series "The Eight Show." (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

SEOUL, May 23 (Yonhap) -- Actor Ryu Jun-yeol, recently embroiled in controversy over allegedly transitioning from a relationship with Hyeri to one with Han So-hee, has opted to remain silent.

He stated, "I believe keeping silent is the best approach." Ryu addressed the controversy during a press meeting on the 23rd at a cafe in Jongno-gu, Seoul, held to promote the Netflix original series "The Eight Show."

Ryu explained, "Various speculations and stories emerged regardless of my intentions." He added, "I didn't think explaining my private life would add anything new." He believes that responding would only lead to more conjecture and that maintaining silence was and continues to be the best course of action.

▲ This image, provided by Netflix on May 23, 2024, shows actor Ryu Jun-yeol starring Netflix original series "The Eight Show." (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

The controversy began in March when news of his relationship with Han So-hee broke, leading to allegations of a "transitioning romance" from Hyeri to Han So-hee. Ryu clarified through his agency that he met Han after breaking up with Hyeri, but the controversy persisted, and he eventually broke up with Han So-hee as well.

Ryu's personal controversy unexpectedly extended to accusations of "greenwashing." Despite his long-standing involvement in climate change awareness campaigns, he was criticized for being a golf enthusiast, which some viewed as hypocritical. Ryu addressed this candidly, saying, "I've been contemplating how to share the love I've received, naturally wanting to leave the environment I cherish for future generations."

He admitted, "I may have been overly ambitious in wanting to maintain a positive image," and reflected, "Going forward, I plan to focus on efforts behind the scenes rather than visible statements and actions."

▲ This image, provided by Netflix on May 23, 2024, shows actor Ryu Jun-yeol starring Netflix original series "The Eight Show." (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

"The Eight Show," released on the 17th, revolves around eight individuals who, contemplating ending their lives, join a mysterious show with the proposition, "We will buy your time." Participants choose a number from 1 to 8, which determines their fate and the luxury of their accommodations, with higher floors offering more lavish living conditions. The show accumulates prize money over time, with higher floors earning more.

Ryu praised the series for its comprehensive treatment of issues like money, media, and social class, finding it engaging even with full knowledge of the plot. In the series, Ryu plays a character referred to as "3rd Floor," providing narration and insight into his feelings and circumstances to the audience.

▲ Undated file photos of actors Ryu Jun-yeol (L) and Han So-hee. (Yonhap)

Ryu recounted a brief but impactful encounter with veteran actor Choi Bul-am, who previously played Detective Park Young-han in an earlier work. Choi's advice helped shape Ryu's portrayal of his character, emphasizing meticulous note-taking and thoughtful communication.

"The Eight Show" ranked 7th globally among non-English Netflix content in its first week and reached 2nd place worldwide according to FlixPatrol on the 22nd. However, the increasing violence in the latter episodes has drawn criticism. Ryu acknowledged this, explaining that the show aims to critique media portrayals and provoke discomfort about violent and sensational content.

Despite the serious themes, the series includes lighter moments, such as a talent show where Ryu awkwardly dances to extend the show's time, eliciting laughter. Ryu shared a humorous anecdote about struggling to appear unskilled enough to meet the director's expectations.

Reflecting on the reception, Ryu noted, "The mixed reactions suggest that the show's intent has been effectively conveyed," and he appreciated that not everyone found the uncomfortable scenes palatable, indicating the message resonated as intended.