Zo In Sung reveals real reason for beard as 'Hope' comments resurface

Actor Zo In Sung's "beard comments," exchanged with fans approximately three years ago, are drawing renewed attention following the release of the film 'Hope.' His responses, which were largely dismissed as jokes at the time, are gaining belated significance as the film's release provides context to his earlier remarks.

Recently, comments Zo In Sung shared with fans on his SNS in 2023 have been resurfacing across online communities and social media (SNS).

At the time, Zo In Sung attended the 13th Beautiful Artist Awards held at Stage 28 in Gangdong-gu, Seoul, sporting a thick beard that was a departure from his usual look. When he posted photos highlighting the beard on his SNS, fans reacted with various emotions to his unfamiliar appearance.

Fans left playful comments such as, "Are you testing the limits of my love?", "You attached that beard, right?", and "Beautiful Jesus-beard award?" while jokingly suggesting he shave.

However, Zo In Sung's responses were firm.

To the question, "It's not a real beard, right?", he replied, "It's not fake." To a fan's comment saying, "Shave while I'm being nice," he wittily shot back, "Even if you're mean, I can't."

The comment that garnered the most attention was a question asking the reason for growing the beard. When one fan wrote, "It looks cool, but someone needs to pay you soon...", Zo In Sung replied, "I did it because I got paid," and followed up with a cryptic comment, "It will be explained once you see the work," piquing curiosity.

While it was perceived as a joke hinting at his next project at the time, the meaning has become clear with the recent release of director Na Hong-jin's film 'Hope.'

In 'Hope,' which was released on the 15th, Zo In Sung completes his character by appearing with a long beard. As it has been confirmed that he maintained this appearance for a long period for the role, his past SNS comments are once again in the spotlight.

The film, following its invitation to the competition section of the 79th Cannes International Film Festival, continues its box office success, surpassing 2,000,000 cumulative viewers just five days after its domestic release. However, regarding its unique narrative and direction, audience reviews remain divided between praise and mixed reactions.