Actor Yoo Ah In's return to the screen in the film The Match has surprisingly received support from audiences despite the lingering controversy of his 2023 indictment for illegal substance use.

Playing the second lead of Go prodigy Lee Chang Ho, Yoo joins veteran actor Lee Byung Hun in the biographical drama, which details the rivalry and mentorship behind Lee Chang Ho and Go legend Cho Hoon Hyun. Lee Byung Hun plays the role of Cho.

The release of The Match was delayed due to Yoo's indictment last year for the illegal use of seven different drugs, including propofol.

The charges significantly damaged his public image and led to a temporary career halt.

Yoo was later handed a suspended sentence during his second trial.

The Match marks his first project since the controversy. Although the public initially appeared reluctant to support the film, reception has shifted.

According to data from the Korean Film Council, the film drew more than 427,000 viewers over the April 4–6 weekend, bringing its total viewership to over 1.35 million.

The movie has topped the weekend box office for two consecutive weeks and is nearing its break-even point of 1.8 million viewers.

The unexpected box office success is sparking conversations about Yoo's potential return to the entertainment industry.

However, industry observers note that much of the film's momentum may be attributed to the efforts of Lee Byung Hun, who led the film's promotional activities.

While The Match may signal a cautious thaw in public perception, Yoo's long-term future remains uncertain.

"It still remains to be seen whether Yoo can bring about the same results with his following projects," an industry insider said.