[Edaily Starin JOO MEE_HEE Reporter] As the controversy over “historical distortion” surrounding the film *The Assassin(s)* has escalated into attacks targeting the production team and individual actors, the film industry has been voicing concerns one after another.

The Film Industry Alliance issued a statement on the 5th, expressing “deep concern” over the recent situation surrounding *The Assassin(s)*. Nineteen organizations representing various sectors of the film industry—including production, directing, cinematography, art direction, screenwriting, distribution, exhibition, film festivals, education, and labor—joined this statement.
The Alliance of Filmmakers specifically pointed out that the controversy surrounding the film is spilling over into the personal lives of individuals involved in the production. Recently, about 50 members of a conservative group held a rally in front of lead actor Yoo Hae-jin’s home in Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, to denounce the production company and the actors. Personal attacks and malicious comments continue to target not only the cast but also actors and critics who wrote endorsements for the film.
The Filmmakers’ Alliance stated, “Discussions surrounding the film are extending beyond its content and interpretation to affect the daily lives and safety of individuals who participated in the film or expressed their opinions,” citing the rally held outside the actor’s residence and the cancellation of film-related activities and events.
However, they also made it clear that criticism of the film or questions regarding its historical interpretation should not be suppressed. The Film Industry Alliance stated, “If a work deals with actual historical events, various questions and social discussions regarding its interpretation and expression are natural,” adding, “The pain and concerns felt by the bereaved families and those who remember that era must also be respected.”
They further emphasized that “criticism of a work and pressure on individuals must be clearly distinguished.” While disagreements regarding a work’s content or historical interpretation can be expressed through criticism, discussion, and public debate, “this process must not extend into the realm of privacy—such as an individual’s residence or personal information—nor should it affect their safety or livelihood.”
The Film Industry Solidarity drew a clear line, stating that this statement does not contain any judgment regarding the artistic merit or historical interpretation of *The Assassin(s)*. The group stated, “Judgment of the work is the responsibility of the audience and society,” adding, “Different evaluations and criticisms must be allowed to exist freely.” It further emphasized, “An individual’s life and safety should not be threatened simply because they participated in the work or expressed an opinion.”
This is not the first time the film industry has expressed such concerns. On the 4th, the Korean Directors’ Guild stated, “Evaluations of a single film are escalating into attacks aimed at stifling a person’s future creative work,” adding, “While creators may be subject to criticism regarding their work, that criticism must not lead to the destruction of the creator’s personal life and livelihood.”
The Korean Cinematographers Guild also urged on the 2nd, “Even if a film draws its story from real events, it is ultimately a work completed through the creator’s imagination and interpretation,” asking that while diverse opinions on the work be freely shared, attacks directed at those involved in production be refrained from. The Korea Producers Association and the Korean Film Producers Guild likewise expressed concern over excessive attacks on production staff and actors.
“The Assassin(s),” which is based on the 1974 assassination attempt on First Lady Yuk Young-soo, has sparked controversy over “historical distortion”—primarily among conservative circles—since its release on the 23rd of last month. Lawmakers from the People Power Party are calling for Director Heo Jin-ho to appear as a witness or reference person at a parliamentary audit, as well as for a ban on the film’s screenings and the recovery of its profits. They have also decided to send a letter to the Singapore International Film Festival, which opens on the 21st, requesting that “The Assassin(s)”—selected as the opening film—be withdrawn from the lineup.
As the controversy intensifies, Director Heo and the cast have completely canceled their plans to attend the Busan International Film Festival, which opens on the 6th, citing safety concerns.
The Filmmakers’ Alliance urged citizens, “Please acknowledge that differing opinions can exist and help ensure that the debate does not target individuals.” Addressing fellow filmmakers, they stated, “The Filmmakers’ Alliance will stand with you so that no individual has to face threats and pressure alone simply for participating in the film or expressing their opinion.”