Busan:Actors from the film "The Assassin(s)" have decided not to attend events at the upcoming Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) following controversy over alleged historical inaccuracies in the film.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the film's distributor announced the decision after critics claimed the film suggested that either then South Korean President Park Chung-hee or intelligence authorities might have been involved in the 1974 assassination attempt that resulted in the death of the first lady.
Hive Media Corp., the film's distributor, stated in an English-language post on social media that the decision was made after careful consideration of the safety of audiences and attendees. As a result, the lead actors Yoo Hae-jin and Lee Min-ho will no longer attend the BIFF's opening ceremony. Director Hur Jin-ho, actor Park Hae-il, and other cast members were also set to participate in an outdoor event the following day, which has now been canceled. Additionally, an "Actor's House" program where Lee was scheduled to meet with the audience has been called off.
The controversy has prompted a conservative civic group to announce plans for rallies outside Yoo Hae-jin's home, protesting the film's alleged historical distortions. Marketing campaigns have also been affected, with Kiwoom Securities Co. suspending an advertising campaign featuring Yoo, and a fast-food chain disabling comment sections on social media posts involving the actor.
Despite the backlash, the production team for "The Assassin(s)" has refuted the claims, asserting that the film does not aim to distort or deny historical facts.