Actor Park Jung-min sheds his 'nerdy charm' and embraces a 'heartthrob' persona. Following his captivating gaze at the Blue Dragon Film Awards last year with singer Hwasa, he now showcases a passionate love in the film 'Humint' directed by Ryoo Seung-wan. After losing weight, his visuals have become even more striking, adding a 'sexy masculinity' to his appeal.
Park Jung-min will meet audiences with the release of 'Humint' on the 11th. His activities are highly anticipated as he rides the wave of popularity following his performance with Hwasa at the Blue Dragon Film Awards last November. All eyes are on what new facets Park will reveal in 'Humint'.
At the Blue Dragon Film Awards, Park's 'melodramatic gaze' captivated the audience. His tender look at Hwasa on stage was broadcast live, reaching viewers at home. The audience reacted with comments like "Park Jung-min is guilty" and "It felt like watching a melodrama." Their previous collaboration in Hwasa's 'Good Goodbye' music video as 'ex-boyfriend' added depth to their on-stage chemistry.
Park returns to the screen with 'Humint' as a 'heartthrob'. Set in Vladivostok, 'Humint' is an action drama about clashes between a National Intelligence Service agent, a North Korean security officer, and those at the center of power with differing agendas. Park plays Park Geon, a North Korean security officer with sharp judgment and quick actions, but who is vulnerable in front of his love, Chae Sun-hwa (played by Shin Se-kyung).
Park Geon's intense love for Chae Sun-hwa adds warmth to the espionage-themed 'Humint'. Park's deep gaze, which stood out in his brief stage appearance with Hwasa, transforms into a fiery intensity in this film. Known for being distant from traditional melodrama, Park presents a refreshing yet familiar excitement as a 'straightforward man'.
Park also unveils a new side through action scenes. His precise movements based on Hapkido and solid firearm action exude masculine charm. The combination of intense action and passionate gazes immerses the audience in Park's performance.
While many hail him as a 'rising star', Park remains composed. He admits to feeling overwhelmed by the memes following his stage with Hwasa, even opting to hit 'not interested' on social media. When congratulated on his rising fame, he jokes, "I don't know how far I have to rise to be considered famous." He remains grounded, acknowledging that "this popularity will soon fade."
Despite having the opportunity to leverage his 'national ex-boyfriend' image for higher pay, Park is content with the expanded opportunities as an actor. He laughs, "It's a blessing that the word 'excitement' is now associated with Park Jung-min, who has worked hard for 15 years. Expanding my range is a good thing."
His unpretentious humility and proven talent make it hard not to notice Park Jung-min. From Hwasa to Shin Se-kyung, and now into the hearts of the nation, Park's journey is one to watch.
Kim Ji-won, TenAsia Reporter bella@tenasia.co.kr