'The Roundup' Finally Sees the Light After 7-Year Delay Due to Bae Sung-woo's DUI Controversy

The long-awaited film 'The Roundup' is finally set to premiere after a 7-year delay caused by Bae Sung-woo's DUI controversy. Bae has once again publicly apologized for his past mistakes.

On the morning of the 9th, a production briefing for 'The Roundup' was held at CGV Yongsan I'Park Mall in Seoul. Director Park Cheol-hwan, along with actors Bae Sung-woo, Jung Ga-ram, Esom, Jo Han-chul, and Yoon Kyung-ho, were in attendance.

'The Roundup' is a crime investigation drama that follows veteran detective Jae-hyuk, who is demoted to a rural area, as he teams up with rookie detective Jung-ho to solve a murder case involving two suspects. The film was initially set to release under the title 'The Outlaws' after completing filming in 2019, but was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and Bae's DUI incident.

Given the long delay, there were concerns about the film's relevance to current times. Director Park addressed these concerns by stating, "There aren't many depictions of the era, so I don't think viewers will find anything jarring. Despite some difficult moments, we are satisfied with the final edit after extensive post-production and editing."

Lead actor Bae Sung-woo expressed his remorse, saying, "I sincerely apologize once again to everyone who was inconvenienced by my actions. I am grateful and relieved that 'The Roundup' is finally being released and that I can stand here today." He added, "I hope the hard work of the director, staff, and other actors isn't overshadowed by my mistakes. I will continue to do my best."

Bae plays the role of veteran detective Seo Jae-hyuk, describing his character as "a detective who had risen to a certain level but whose life takes a downturn due to bad luck. Jae-hyuk is quite old-fashioned and stubborn, with a romantic side that complicates his life."

Jung Ga-ram, who plays influencer detective Kim Jung-ho, completed his military service during the 7-year delay. He shared, "I enlisted during the COVID-19 pandemic and lived completely isolated from society. I realized the value of things I took for granted. If the film had been released during my service, I wouldn't have been able to participate in promotions, so I'm glad to be here now."

On working closely with Bae, Jung said, "I appear in 99% of the film with him. We worked together on 'Beasts Clawing at Straws,' but didn't have scenes together. This time, I was very happy and relied on him a lot."

Yoon Kyung-ho, who plays the prime suspect Jo Dong-oh, expressed his excitement, saying, "When we were preparing this film, I hoped we could do stage greetings and production announcements. I wished Ga-ram could join us after his military service, and that wish came true. Despite concerns about the long wait, people say it doesn't feel outdated and is entertaining. I'm excited to show a different side of myself."

Esom plays prosecutor Kang Mi-joo, while Jo Han-chul portrays detective Oh Min-ho, who obstructs Seo Jae-hyuk and Kim Jung-ho. Jo described his character as "an elite detective who has never failed, but sees Seo Jae-hyuk and Kim Jung-ho as obstacles to his career."

In closing, Bae Sung-woo said, "This film felt like a debt on my heart, and I'm grateful it's finally being released. I hope viewers enjoy it as much as I enjoyed making it. I will continue to give my best effort."

The film is set to release on the 2nd of next month.

Ryu Ye-ji, TenAsia Reporter ryuperstar@tenasia.co.kr