On November 27th, the cast and director of the highly anticipated film Harbin gathered at CGV Yongsan I’Park Mall for a press conference. Attendees included stars Hyun Bin, Park Jung Min, Jo Woo Jin, Jeon Yeo Been, Park Hoon, Yoo Jae Myung, Lee Dong Wook, and director Woo Min Ho.
Hyun Bin, who takes on the role of An Jung Geun, spoke candidly about the immense pressure and sense of duty he felt while portraying the real-life historical figure. “I vividly remember the first meeting when I was offered the role. Director Woo’s sincerity, determination, and passion for creating this story were palpable,” he said, explaining why he chose to join the project. “I thought that working with him on this film would result in something truly meaningful.”
He admitted that taking on such a significant role came with its challenges. “I had a lot of concerns. The burden and responsibility I felt of portraying a real person were indescribable,” he shared.
The actor continued, “I had a lot of concerns, but I was incredibly grateful for the chance to portray such a meaningful figure. That sense of gratitude only grew stronger while working on set. The sincerity, passion, and energy around me had a huge impact on me,” adding, “I poured my heart into every movement, every shot, and every scene. My determination to bring this to life with the director only grew stronger as we worked together.”
Set in 1909, Harbin follows Korean independence activists who launched a daring attack in Harbin against the Japanese to gain their country’s independence.
Lee Dong Wook, who plays Lee Chang Seop, brought a touch of humor to the event. “After two years of talking about ‘Harbin’ non-stop on ‘Pinggyego (Yoo Jae Suk’s YouTube Show)’, it’s finally being released, and I couldn’t be happier,” he joked.
Speaking about the harsh conditions on set, Lee Dong Wook explained, “The set was covered in snow that would melt during the day and freeze again at night. It was nearly impossible to stand still, but the natural elements added authenticity to the scenes and helped me act more naturally.”
He shared why he joined the movie: “The chance to work with Woo Min Ho and some of Korea’s most renowned actors was reason enough. My character, while different in ideology from An Jung Geun, is also a freedom fighter. I thought it would be interesting to portray this character’s diverse sides. Growing a beard was also essential to his look.”
Lee elaborated on the ideological differences between his character and An Jung Geun. “My character believes in achieving independence through armed struggle, while An Jung Geun holds to the belief that prisoners should be spared. That’s the biggest contrast between them.”
Meanwhile, Harbin promises to deliver an intense historical drama filled with gripping performances led by some of Korea’s finest actors. It will hit the theater on Christmas, December 25th.
>> ‘Harbin’ Takes TIFF by Storm as Hyun Bin and Lee Dong Wook Discuss Their Roles
