Lee Jung-sub, who initially directed “Real” before stepping down due to creative differences, has faced renewed scrutiny after his name appeared on early audition materials. Netizens demanded clarification over an alleged notice stating that actresses unwilling to perform high-level nude scenes couldn’t audition for lead roles, sparking criticism over the film’s casting practices.
Sulli’s older brother recently spoke out, accusing the “Real” production team of forcing her to film explicit scenes despite the availability of a body double. He claimed Sulli was pressured into high-level exposure, and his statement has since reignited public anger and criticism online.
On March 29, Lee addressed the issue via his personal Twitter, stating, “I don’t have director credit, so I’m not in a position to issue an official explanation. Still, based on the reports, I can say the production team didn’t allow me to attend the early stages of the audition process.”
He added that he was excluded from the selection process to maintain fairness, and later only met the final candidates chosen by the team. “I personally selected rookie actress Han Ji-eun, and we had an enjoyable time filming together,” he recalled.
Lee also revealed that actor Jo Woo-jin, then a newcomer, was also cast through the same audition process after a meeting at the VIP premiere of “Inside Men.”
In a follow-up message posted during the early hours of March 30, Lee responded to a Kim Soo-hyun fan, expressing his frustration at the current media frenzy, “I’ve never tried to expose or incite anything. I’ve always spoken the same way. I’ve silently done my work and shared my personal, painful feelings that no one paid attention to. But now the media, which had stayed silent, is using me just to chase ad revenue. Nothing more, nothing less. I don’t want to be used by you or the media.”
He ended on a somber note, admitting his own past admiration for the actor now at the center of controversy, “If you’re truly a good fan of his, you should reflect on how his actions have affected the world. I was once a passionate fan of his, too.”
With mounting questions and no official response yet from the production side, the “Real” controversy continues to stir strong emotions among fans and netizens alike.
