Chae Jong Hyeop is in an open conflict with the production team of the upcoming film Turtle, citing issues over scheduling and contract terms.
On Wednesday (August 13), His agency, Blitzway, confirmed that a certified letter of contract termination has been sent to the production company.
Chae Jong Hyeop’s Agency Claims Filming Schedule Breach
According to Blitzway’s statement, the original contract for Turtle specified a fixed filming period, after which Chae Jong Hyeop was set to begin work on a drama. The agency asserts that delays caused by the production company pushed filming past the agreed period. The filming was delayed without prior consultation with the actor, his drama production team, or the broadcasting channel.
Blitzway stated:
We proposed a plan to proceed with film shooting after the drama filming was completed, but we couldn’t reach an agreement. As a result, we had no choice but to send a notice of contract termination. We still hope for an amicable resolution, but if an agreement can’t be reached, we’ll proceed with legal procedures according to the contract and relevant laws.
Production Company Disputes Claims
Earlier reports revealed that Chae signed on to Turtle in April with Popcorn Film, and the filming was originally set for May. However, production delays postponed the start date. Following a recent script reading, shooting was set to begin on August 16, but the actor issued his termination notice before filming commenced.
Popcorn Film countered that the May–July window was a flexible schedule plan subject to change in unavoidable situations. The company also argued
The filming period (May–July) was only a tentative schedule, and it was explicitly agreed that adjustments could be made if unavoidable circumstances arose.
Chae Jong Hyeop actively and diligently participated in pre-filming script readings, rehearsals, and other preparatory processes, which is effectively the same as agreeing to the schedule changes.
Popcorn Film further alleged that the August filming date became unworkable because Chae did not cooperate with martial arts training or costume fittings. The company stated that if talks fail, they will also pursue legal action, potentially seeking damages.
The dispute now hinges on whether the originally stated filming period in the contract is legally binding or open to adjustment. Both parties have expressed willingness for discussion but are prepared to escalate the matter to court if necessary.
On the work front, Chae Jong Hyeop is cast as the male lead opposite Lee Sung Kyung in the drama, In Your Brilliant Season.
