The film 'The Black Spirit' has released an exclusive interview with Song Seung-hyun, who plays the character 'Hyun-woo'. Formerly of FT Island, Song announced his retirement from the entertainment industry in February last year, followed by his marriage in June. He is now reportedly taking over his father-in-law's restaurant business in the United States.
In a detailed written interview, Song Seung-hyun, who plays 'Hyun-woo' in the occult horror film 'The Black Spirit', shares his thoughts. Since his retirement, Song has not appeared in public, but he has now engaged with the audience's interest through this in-depth interview.
Song expressed his gratitude to the audience for their continued interest, jokingly asking, "Is it really that hot?" He also shared a heartfelt message of support for 'The Black Spirit', which marks his final work before retirement.Full Interview with Song Seung-hyun
Q. How do you feel about the release of 'The Black Spirit'?
I know it took quite some time to get to the release. I want to thank the production team, director, and all the staff and actors for their hard work. Personally, I'm very excited in New York. I apologize again to the director and actors for not being able to attend the premiere and film festivals.
Q. What was your impression when you first received the script?
I've received many scripts and gone through auditions, but 'The Black Spirit' was a project I really wanted to do. I remember going overboard during the audition and meetings. It was a role I had never played before, and I was drawn to the intense villain character.
Q. Were there any challenges or concerns while acting?
Playing a character so different from myself was challenging, and I put in a lot of effort. I had to portray evil naturally and make the character appear unlikable and somewhat cheap. It was harder than I thought on set, but the director helped bring out my performance and believed in me, which was a great help.
Q. How do you feel after retiring?
As a person, I wanted to become more mature and healthy in both body and mind. I'm filling my days with new challenges in New York alongside my marriage. I posted on Instagram about taking a break from the entertainment industry and starting a new life in New York, which received more attention than I expected. I didn't think I was that famous, so I thought it would pass quietly (laughs). Many people who didn't know me wondered who I was and why I was retiring, and some even joked that I was a fake Song Seung-heon. On the other hand, I received a lot of encouragement, support, and concern from fans.
Q. Can you share what a typical day is like for you?
I've spent a year in New York learning various businesses. Now, I'm preparing to run my own restaurant based on that experience. If the 'The Black Spirit' team comes to New York, I'll treat them all for free (laughs).
Q. Do you have any memorable episodes from the set?
Looking back, it was a very happy and grateful time. I still feel a bit of pain and guilt. Everyone worked so hard, and it was a pleasure to film together. There were parts that had to be done quickly in a short time, which was stressful, but everyone cooperated well, and I think that's why the film was completed successfully. A memorable scene was when I had to drag a suitcase to the edge of a cliff and throw it, and it was raining heavily. The memory of dragging that heavy suitcase is still vivid.
Q. Is there a particular scene that stands out to you?
There was a scene where I had to silently open my mouth in shock upon discovering a wet suitcase inside the house. It was really difficult, and I kept shouting, which made me feel sorry for the staff on set.
Q. With the release of 'The Black Spirit' approaching, there's a lot of interest in you as an actor.
I don't think it's really that intense... (laughs) Thank you for saying so. 'Hyun-woo' is a character with impactful scenes in 'The Black Spirit', so I think that's why he's memorable. However, I believe the film is about the relationships between all the characters. If you pay attention to the stories of the other actors, you'll find even more overwhelming horror and new enjoyment.
Q. Please say a few words to the audience who will watch 'The Black Spirit'.
'The Black Spirit' is a project I worked very hard on from auditions to filming. I hope you love not only 'The Black Spirit' but also Korean horror films. I've heard it's very hot in Korea. I hope you can beat the heat and enjoy watching 'The Black Spirit'.
'The Black Spirit' is now showing in theaters.
Lee So-jung, Ten Asia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr