Actor Yoo Ah-in has signed with a new agency just days after confirming his return to the big screen, signaling a full-fledged comeback more than three years after a drug scandal derailed his career.

Agency Billions announced on its official social media channel Friday that it had signed an exclusive contract with Yoo, acknowledging concerns surrounding his past legal troubles and decision to resume acting.

"We take seriously the concerns arising from Yoo Ah-in's past case and his recent return to activities," the agency said.

"Before signing the contract, we had a number of candid conversations with him over a long period of time and gave deep consideration to the responsibility and attitude required for him to resume his career as an actor, as well as the direction he should take going forward," it said.

Yoo was sentenced to one year in prison, suspended for two years, for violations of Korea's Narcotics Control Act and other charges.

His contract with his former agency UAA ended June 30, amid reports that he was considering a role in director Jang Jae-hyun's upcoming film "Vampir."

Attention had also focused on Yoo's choice of a new agency after reports said Galaxy Corporation, home to K-pop star G-Dragon, had offered to sign him with a contract payment of around 5 billion won ($3.6 million).

Yoo's casting in "Vampir" was officially confirmed Tuesday, with a photo showing him attending a script reading also released.

The film, which has finalized its main cast, is preparing to begin production and is reportedly targeting a 2028 release.

Yoo's return has nevertheless drawn criticism from some who question whether he should resume his entertainment career while still serving his suspended sentence.

The announcement of his new agency contract, coming just three days after his film comeback was confirmed, marks Yoo's most significant move toward reviving his career since his drug scandal emerged around December 2022.

Billions said it recognizes that rebuilding public trust will require more than simply returning to work.

"We are well aware that regaining trust requires, above all, deep reflection and a sincere attitude," the agency said. "We take the concerns seriously, will humbly listen to criticism from the public and the media, and will approach any necessary communication with humility."

This article from Xportsnews is adapted by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.