On January 6, a press screening and media conference for Boy (directed by Lee Sang Deok) was held at CGV Yongsan I’Park Mall in Seoul. Director Lee Sang Deok, Jo Byeong Gyu, and former NMIXX member Jini attended the event.
Set in a near-future dystopia, Boy is described as a neon-noir film in which a single love shakes an entire world. Jo Byeong Gyu plays Rohan, a young boss operating in “Texas Hot Springs,” a place where crime has become part of everyday life. Jini makes her acting debut as Jane in the film. Boy is scheduled for release on January 14.
Before the media conference began, the cast and director held a moment of silence to honor the late Ahn Sung Ki, who passed away on January 5, expressing their condolences and vowing to remember his enduring legacy.
Jo Byeong Gyu’s appearance at the event drew particular attention, as it marked his first public activity since news broke last November that he had lost a civil lawsuit seeking approximately ₩4 billion in damages over school bullying allegations. Jo Byeong Gyu and his former agency, HB Entertainment, had filed the lawsuit against an individual identified as “A,” who claimed in February 2021 that the actor had bullied them during his time studying in New Zealand.
The actor’s side argued that the allegations were false and had caused severe financial losses, including canceled advertising deals and withdrawn drama and film projects, and demanded compensation totaling ₩4 billion, including ₩200 million in emotional damages. However, the court ruled that the submitted evidence was insufficient to conclude the allegations were false, dismissed all claims, and ordered Jo Byeong Gyu’s side to cover the full litigation costs. The actor has since filed an appeal against the ruling.
Asked about his comeback, Jo Byeong Gyu said he had long admired director Lee Sang Deok’s work and approach as a fan. He explained that after reading the script, he believed Boy had strong potential to attract younger audiences to theaters and found the collaboration enjoyable. He added that working with a relatively young crew made the creative process more engaging, calling the experience both memorable and rewarding, while admitting he felt nervous about how the film would resonate with audiences.
Director Lee Sang Deok addressed the controversy surrounding Jo Byeong Gyu’s casting, saying the actor demonstrated a strong understanding of the character and sincere dedication to the project, which led him to decide without hesitation to work together.
Meanwhile, Jo Byeong Gyu, who was born in 1996 and is approaching the age for mandatory military service, also spoke candidly about enlistment. Joking about co-star Yoo In Soo, who is currently serving in the Air Force, he remarked that Yoo seemed to be having an easier time than expected. With humor, Jo Byeong Gyu added that Yoo In Soo might already be imagining his future as a private, quipping that while he is willing to learn more about acting, he has no desire to “learn” military life from his colleague.
Boy will hit theaters nationwide on January 14.
Sources: Nate