Actor Bae Sung-woo, who received a fine on a drunk-driving charge, is expected to join a new project directed by his colleague, Ha Jung-woo.

On the 14th, Artist Company, Bae Sung-woo's agency, revealed that Bae had received an offer to appear in Ha Jung-woo's film 'Lobby', which is currently under consideration. Although the agency merely stated that it is "under review", it is highly probable that Bae's participation has already been verbally agreed upon, considering that the director himself extended the invitation.

Furthermore, there are few reasons for Bae Sung-woo, who is currently not involved in many projects due to his drunk-driving charge, to refuse to appear in a movie directed and starred by Ha Jung-woo. Unless Ha and Bae feel overwhelmed by the sudden exposure of the casting news and withdraw, Bae's participation in 'Lobby' is virtually confirmed.

However, public sentiment towards Bae Sung-woo's potential participation in 'Lobby' is not positive, largely due to his history of drunk driving. Bae was caught driving under the influence in Sinsa-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, after having drinks with an acquaintance in November 2020. At the time, Bae's blood alcohol level was over 0.08%, which is a license suspension level.

His drunk-driving incident caused considerable disturbance. At that time, Bae was starring in the SBS drama 'Fly Dragon', but had to step down midway through production due to the scandal, causing significant harm to the actors and staff of the drama.

Fortunately, fellow actor Jung Woo-sung, also a representative of his agency, was able to fill his position and somehow the drama was completed. However, the viewers of 'Fly Dragon' had to tolerate the absurdity of seeing Bae Sung-woo's character, Park Sam-su, suddenly being replaced by Jung Woo-sung after 16 episodes.

A year later, in December 2021, Bae Sung-woo confirmed his appearance in the movie 'Unspeakable Secret' (directed by Seo Yu-min), marking the end of his period of reflection and return to his main career. The speed of his comeback, faster than expected, caused the public to frown.

Similarly, Bae Sung-woo's potential involvement in 'Lobby' is under the public's cold gaze. There are criticisms and disappointments following Ha Jung-woo's decision to cast Bae Sung-woo, a long-time colleague from the same agency, out of friendship and loyalty. Furthermore, 'Lobby', being a movie central to the film industry and directed and starred by Ha Jung-woo, is an incredible comeback opportunity for Bae.

While the director may argue that it's not a big deal to cast his close colleague Bae Sung-woo in his movie, the public can't help but feel resentment and a sense of deprivation at the sight of an actor who committed a crime, yet easily finds his place in a short period.

It's not to say that Bae should reflect on his drunk driving incident for the rest of his life. However, the problem is that there's no sense of true remorse in his rapid comeback, thanks to his close colleague. This is why there's criticism about the never-ending scandals of celebrities who break the law.

It may be wiser for Bae Sung-woo to continue his activities on the stage of a meaningful independent film or play, rather than in Ha Jung-woo's 'Lobby'. Coming back independently without the aid of special acquaintances might better demonstrate his remorse for his mistake and passion for acting, rather than a smooth and secure comeback through networking.

Copyright © 2023 Kpop Reporter. All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.