Fans of Yeo Jin-goo Honor Actor’s Variety Show Debut with Indie Film Donation
On April 22, 2025, a long-time fan of South Korean actor Yeo Jin-goo made headlines by celebrating the premiere of his new tvN variety show with a generous donation to support independent cinema. To commemorate the debut of ‘신삼국지‘, the fan contributed ₩2 million (approx. $1,500 USD) to IndieSpace, securing a personalized ‘H6 seat’ plaque engraved with Yeo Jin-goo’s name.
The fan, expressing their long-standing admiration since Yeo’s child acting days, stated: “From childhood roles to leading performances, Yeo Jin-goo remains my number one. As he ventures into variety through ‘신삼국지’, I cheer for his ongoing journey and wish to support the growth of independent film in Korea.”
In honor of the donation, IndieSpace, Korea’s first private theater dedicated to indie films since 2007, will host a special screening of Hwayi: A Monster Boy (2013), directed by Jang Joon-hwan, on April 30. This film marked one of Yeo Jin-goo’s early breakthrough performances as a lead actor and remains a defining moment in his career.
This special screening not only provides an opportunity for fans to revisit or newly discover one of Yeo’s seminal roles, but also draws attention to the role of celebrity influence in elevating Korea’s independent cinema culture. IndieSpace’s “Seat of Sharing” donation program, initiated after its 2012 reopening, allows donors contributing over ₩2 million to dedicate a theater seat—a creative model that reflects commitment from filmmakers, fans, and supporters alike.
As the convergence between celebrity fandom and nonprofit film culture grows stronger, fans like Yeo Jin-goo’s are helping foster a more sustainable and visible future for Korea’s indie film ecosystem. These acts exemplify how personal admiration can spark public impact—creating ripple effects beyond the screen.
