Lee Byung-hun is ready to deliver one of his most powerful performances yet in The Match, a gripping film based on the legendary real-life rivalry between Go masters Cho Hun-hyun and Lee Chang-ho.

🎬 Official Press Screening—A Battle of Mentors, Students, and Raw Emotions

On March 19, the cast and crew of The Match gathered for a press screening and media conference at CGV Yongsan I'Park Mall in Seoul. Lee Byung-hun, Ko Chang-seok, Hyun Bong-sik, Moon Jung-hee, Jo Woo-jin, and director Kim Hyung-joo attended.

The film tells the story of Go legend Cho Hun-hyun (played by Lee Byung-hun), who faces a crushing loss against his own student, Lee Chang-ho (Yoo Ah-in). The defeat forces him to confront his pride and start over from the very beginning—fighting his way back to the top with relentless determination.

Director Kim Hyung-joo shared, "I didn't know much about Go myself, so my priority was making sure the story would resonate even with those unfamiliar with the game."

🎭 Lee Byung-hun Nails the Complex Emotions of a Fallen Master

Lee Byung-hun completely transformed into the national Go hero, Cho Hun-hyun. From the iconic 2:8 side parting to subtle facial expressions, he embodied the character's pride, despair, and determination.

"I practiced the hand movements endlessly—placing and retrieving the stones without disturbing the board was the toughest part," Lee admitted. "The moment I decided to do the film, I set up a Go board at home and practiced every chance I got with my son."

Lee also studied the slightest facial expressions and gestures of professional Go players. "I worked hard to capture the exact look—whether they're confident, anxious, or sensing defeat," he said.

♟ Yoo Ah-in as Lee Chang-ho—The Young Prodigy with a Stone-Cold Poker Face

Yoo Ah-in portrays the young genius Lee Chang-ho, starting as a mischievous boy effortlessly defeating adults, then growing into a calculating, almost monk-like player—just like the real Lee Chang-ho, known for his icy calm.

Lee Byung-hun praised Yoo Ah-in's acting, saying, "It was our first time working together. He's much quieter than I expected, but once he's immersed in the scene, his focus is incredible. It pulled me deeper into the moment."

Director Kim added, "The story naturally leans towards Cho Hun-hyun, but my goal was to balance the emotional weight—sometimes you side with the winner, other times with the loser."

🎥 The Match Hits Theaters March 26—A Must-Watch Story You Won't Believe Is Real

Wrapping up, Lee Byung-hun said, "It's hard to believe this is a true story. The emotional shifts are so subtle and powerful—you'll feel every moment best on the big screen."

The Match premieres in theaters on March 26.