Seoul:Actor Yoo Hae-jin has been placed under police protection due to escalating threats related to his involvement in a controversial film that has sparked public backlash over alleged historical inaccuracies.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the Seoul Seongbuk Police Station has equipped Yoo with a smartwatch and registered him on the emergency 112 system, while also increasing patrols around his home. However, no dedicated police officer has been assigned to him. The decision to provide protection comes amid concerns about potential harm following intense criticism.
Yoo has been criticized by conservative groups for his role in "The Assassin(s)," which portrays the 1974 assassination of Yuk Young-su, the wife of late former President Park Chung-hee. The film is under fire for allegedly suggesting Park's involvement in his wife's death, a claim that conservatives dispute, asserting that the assassin, Moon Se-kwang, was solely responsible.
Protests have been staged by conservative civic groups outside Yoo's residence in northern Seoul, demanding that the film be withdrawn from theaters and that apologies be issued by the actor, his co-stars, and the production team. Demonstrations also took place at the Burger King headquarters in central Seoul, following Yoo's recent advertisement appearances for the chain. Burger King confirmed the termination of its short-term contract with Yoo, clarifying that the decision was not related to the film controversy.
Ko Beom-seok, commissioner of the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency, emphasized that the police will take strict measures against threats directed at Yoo. These comments came after Culture Minister Chae Hwi-young urged for enhanced safety measures for those associated with the film.
Earlier, a civic group held a rally in central Seoul, calling for local businesses to cut advertising ties with Yoo. Meanwhile, another protest took place outside Hive Media Corp., demanding an apology from the production company to the public and the family of the late Park Chung-hee for the film's content.