'Drug Offense Record' Yoo Ah-in Hired by New Agency: Where Is It?

Actor Yoo Ah-in, who received a suspended prison sentence amid drug-related controversy, has joined a new agency.

On the 21st, entertainment company Billions posted an official notice via its social media platform stating, "We have signed an exclusive contract with actor Yoo Ah-in on August 21, 2026."

Billions stated, "We take seriously the concerns surrounding Yoo Ah-in's past incident and his recent resumption of activities. Before finalizing the contract, we engaged in sincere and repeated conversations with Yoo Ah-in over an extended period, deeply reflecting on the responsibilities, mindset, and direction he must pursue as an actor to restart his career."

Billions, which has chosen to move forward together with Yoo Ah-in, added, "What Yoo Ah-in valued most during the contract process was not better terms or superficial support for simply resuming activities, but a genuine partner who would walk alongside him in seeking forgiveness and understanding from the public while rebuilding trust. He sought a partner capable of seriously accompanying him through this difficult and lengthy journey to re-emerge as a completely new actor."

The company further emphasized, "We aim to support Yoo Ah-in over the long term so that he can fulfill his personal responsibilities and rebuild complete trust with the public. We will carefully manage all aspects of his activities, provide a stable environment for him to continue healthy work without wavering, and spare no effort in supporting him to fully focus on his duties as an actor."

The agency reiterated, "We do not intend to treat the past lightly or rush through it. We are well aware that regaining trust requires profound reflection and sincere attitude above all else. We will humbly listen to criticism from the public and media, and work carefully and diligently to ensure that Yoo Ah-in's genuine intentions as an actor are conveyed authentically."

Initially, Billions responded to inquiries about signing an exclusive contract with Yoo Ah-in by calling it "baseless," but reversed its stance just one day later, drawing significant attention.

Netizens reacted with comments such as, "It's shocking that a drug offender is returning," "What was the agency thinking when contracting with a criminal?" and "I want to see his next work."

Yoo Ah-in sparked a drug scandal in February 2023. He was brought to trial on charges including habitual use of medical narcotics such as propofol, and last year the Supreme Court finalized a sentence of one year in prison with a two-year probation period and a fine of 2 million won.

Recently, Yoo Ah-in decided to make his comeback through 'Vampire,' directed by Jang Jae-hyun, the director of the million-viewer film 'Pamyo.' Despite still being under probation, he began filming, announcing his return and facing public criticism.