Korean actor gets police protection amid growing backlash against 'The Assassin(s)'
South Korean actor Yoo Hae-jin has received police protection following protests and threats related to his role in the film 'The Assassin(s)'. Critics claim the movie distorts historical facts regarding the 1974 assassination of the first lady.
Why it matters
This case illustrates the intersection of historical revisionism, artistic freedom, and public safety in South Korea's polarized political climate.
Seoul police began protective measures for actor Yoo Hae-jin on Tuesday after protests outside his home and online threats over his role in The Assassin(s), a film accused by conservative critics of distorting history.
Seongbuk Police Station said it acted at his agency's request, providing him with a smartwatch, registering him in the emergency response system and stepping up patrols around his home. No dedicated protection officers have been assigned.
Earlier Tuesday, Seoul's police chief said: "We see no particular problems at the scene, but we are prepared to take additional measures, such as stepping up patrols or providing police protection, if we determine there could be a safety risk."
He said police would strictly enforce the law against any harm or threats to actors.
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