U-Z and Shim Eun-kyung also decline... Japanese film 'Tamako' on atomic bomb receives 150 million won support from Korean Film Council [Star Issue]

*This content was translated by AI.

Reports emerged that singers U-Z and actress Shim Eun-kyung would appear in the film 'Tamako,' which is based on Japan's atomic bomb, sparking controversy. Both individuals confirmed they received offers to appear in the film but ultimately declined. However, controversy continues after it was revealed that the Korean Film Council (hereinafter "Film Council") will directly provide production funding for the film.

On the 28th, an EDAM Entertainment representative, U-Z's agency, told StarNews, "U-Z received an offer to appear in the film ('Tamako'), but after careful consideration, ultimately declined," confirming their refusal to participate.

A representative from Shim Eun-kyung's agency also told StarNews on the same day, "Shim Eun-kyung received an offer to appear in the work but ultimately declined," conveying her refusal.

'Tamako' is reportedly a story about a boy who lost his parents when an atomic bomb fell on Hiroshima, Japan, in 1945, then crossed over to Korea following Zainichi Koreans and experienced the Korean War. Previously, recent media reports stated that U-Z, actress Shim Eun-kyung, Japanese actor Ando Sakura, and others would appear in the joint Korean-Japanese film 'Tamako,' but controversy arose when it was revealed that the film is based on the atomic bomb.

However, news that the film will receive support from the Film Council has sparked further controversy once again.

According to the "2026 Second Half International Co-Production Pilot Project Review Results Announcement" released by the Film Council on the 1st, the film 'Tamako' was selected as a supported work under this program and will receive 150 million won in funding. This program supports Korean producers and creators in producing works together with overseas partners; 'Tamako' is directed by Japanese director Junji Sakamoto.

The Film Council stated, "The combination of an experienced director's weighty thematic awareness, a highly completed screenplay, and the recognition of the Korean-Japanese cast is expected to yield above-average results in both artistic and commercial aspects." They added, "Although Korea participates as a minority partner, both production teams possess abundant capabilities and experience, leading to high evaluation of completion potential." Furthermore, they noted, "However, we hope that joint ownership of intellectual property by the Korean production company will be realized," explaining their reasons for selection.

Meanwhile, the Film Council has confirmed 150 million won in support for 'Tamako'.

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*This content was translated by AI.