[Edaily Starin Gim Ga Yeong Reporter] Actor Yoo Ah-in has signed with Billion, not Galaxy Corporation, which was rumored to have offered a 5 billion won signing bonus.

On the 21st, Billions announced on its official social media channels, “We signed an exclusive contract with actor Yoo Ah-in on the 21st.”
A Billioness representative explained, “Billioness takes seriously the concerns surrounding Yoo Ah-in’s past incident and his recent return to the industry.” They added, “Accordingly, prior to signing the contract, we engaged in sincere and extensive discussions with Yoo Ah-in over a long period of time, deeply reflecting on the responsibility and mindset required for him to resume his career as an actor, as well as the direction he should take moving forward. After undergoing this careful and thorough process, Billioness has decided to support Yoo Ah-in’s fresh start.”
They continued, “What Yoo Ah-in valued most during the contract process with Billions was not better terms or superficial support merely for resuming his career, but rather a sincere partner who would walk alongside him every step of the way—a heavy and cautious process of seeking the public’s forgiveness and understanding and rebuilding trust—and reflect on each moment together. “He was a partner capable of seriously accompanying him through the difficult and lengthy process of standing once again as a completely new actor, rather than merely continuing along the path of the past,” they added. “Billions also resonates with this sentiment and, rather than rushing things, intends to work together from a long-term perspective so that the actor can fulfill the responsibilities he must shoulder himself and build a completely new trust with the public.”
They further stated, “Going forward, Billions will meticulously manage all aspects of Yoo Ah-in’s career while providing a stable environment that allows him to continue his work in a healthy and unwavering manner. We will spare no effort in supporting him so that he can fully focus on his duties as an actor.”
A representative from Billions explained, “We will not take the past lightly or try to rush past it,” adding, “We are well aware that regaining trust requires, above all, deep reflection and a sincere attitude. Billions will serve as a responsible partner so that Yoo Ah-in can honestly forge his own path once again.”
They further added, “We take current concerns very seriously, will humbly listen to criticism from the public and the media, and will approach necessary communication with an open mind,” noting, “In addition to reflecting on past mistakes, we will work together more carefully and diligently to ensure that the actor’s genuine dedication to his craft and acting is conveyed authentically through his future actions and work.”
Yoo Ah-in was indicted in October 2023 on charges of habitually administering medical propofol and other substances on 181 occasions. He was also charged with illegally obtaining prescriptions for approximately 1,100 tablets of two types of sleeping pills under another person’s name, as well as smoking marijuana and inciting others to do so. Last July, the Supreme Court sentenced Yoo Ah-in—who had been indicted on charges including violation of the Narcotics Control Act (psychotropic substances)—to one year in prison, suspended for two years, and a fine of 2 million won.
Although he is still within his probation period, public opinion is divided following the decision to allow Yoo Ah-in’s return to the entertainment industry. Yoo Ah-in has confirmed his appearance in *Vampire*, directed by Jang Jae-hyun, who also directed *Exhumed* and *The Priests*. The public has reacted to this news by saying it is “premature.”
Previously, news broke that Yoo Ah-in was set to sign an exclusive contract with Galaxy Corporation, the agency to which G-Dragon belongs. According to a report by TV Daily at the time, Yoo Ah-in and Galaxy Corporation were in discussions regarding an exclusive contract fee worth at least 5 billion won. However, speculation has arisen that he may have received an even higher signing bonus after transferring to Billions instead of Galaxy Corporation.
Meanwhile, Billionz represents artists such as Lee Jun-young, Go Chang-seok, Kim Jae-cheol, Kim Ha-neul, Jung Sung-il, and Heo Sung-tae.