There are differing opinions regarding the 'return to the entertainment industry' of actress Shim Eun-ha, who retired 22 years ago. Shim Eun-ha's husband, Ji Sang-wook, a former member of the National Assembly, denied his wife's return, and By4M Studio signed a contract and paid the deposit.
Shim Eun-ha debuted as an open talent in MBC's 22nd recruitment in 1993 and gained much popularity through the drama 'The Last Match'. He appeared in the dramas ‘Youth Trap’, ‘M’, and the movie ‘Christmas in August’. After retiring in 2001, she married former National Assembly member Ji Sang-wook in 2005. After marriage, she attracted attention by appearing at her husband's campaign site.
The timeline regarding Shim Eun-ha's return rumor is as follows. In March last year, Sports Chosun reported that '90s top star' Shim Eun-ha made a comeback after 21 years of retirement. By4M Studio decided to appear in a new work... It was reported that the specific schedule will be adjusted in the middle of next month.
Shim Eun-ha immediately said, "'90s top star' Shim Eun-ha, comeback after 21 years of retirement. Decided to appear in By4M Studio's new work... We would like to inform you that the article about specific schedule coordination in the middle of next month is unfounded." He added, "I have never even heard of the company By4M Studio. We will also consider legal action against these false reports."
About a year passed like that. On February 1, 2023, Daily Sports reported, ‘Shim Eun-ha is confirmed to return to the entertainment industry after 22 years.’ Eunha Shim signed a contract with By4M Studio and plans to film a small dance this year. However, Shim Eun-ha's husband and former member of the National Assembly Ji Wook Ji-wook stated through Star News that the rumors of Shim Eun-ha's return are groundless.
Ji Sang-wook said that By4M Studio also leaked rumors of Shim Eun-ha's return last year. He said he plans to thoroughly investigate those involved in making unfounded rumors and take legal action. In addition, Ji Sang-wook said that Shim Eun-ha was embarrassed, that there was no such thing, and that he was displeased.
By4M Studio said, "Last year, we signed a contract with actress Shim Eun-ha to appear in a work and paid the down payment. We are aiming to confirm and produce a return work this year."
Ji Wook Ji and By4M Studio had different opinions. Attention is being paid to what is the truth behind Shim Eun-ha's unexpected return to the entertainment industry after a year.
Kang Min-kyung, Ten Asia reporter kkk39@tenasia.co.kr