The film 'The Man Who Lives with the King' (directed by Jang Hang-jun) has surpassed 4 million viewers just 15 days after its release, and director Jang Hang-jun is making headlines with some playful revelations.
On the 18th, a member of the film's production team, identified as A, posted on their personal social media, "'The Man Who Lives with the King' 4 million celebration revelation," along with a photo. The photo shows director Jang Hang-jun sitting on a chair on a staircase, pointing, while a staff member kneels in front of him. A added, "Master director Jang Hang-jun's power trip photo. He gathered the production team, made them kneel, and jokingly threatened to execute them if they didn't join him on a funded trip to Europe."
Despite the dramatic expression, the actual context is known to be a lighthearted joke about sponsoring a trip to Europe. The photo was reportedly a pre-arranged staged shot, and netizens have responded with amusement, saying, "This kind of power trip is welcome," and "I'd love to be exiled to Europe."
On the same day, a past YouTube comment by B, who claims to be a high school friend of director Jang, resurfaced. B reminisced, "Hang-jun was an extraordinary character even in high school. He pretended to study with a headband that said 'Victory' but was actually reading comic books," eliciting laughter. This testimony suggests that Jang's unique wit and humor, often seen on TV and variety shows, have been a part of him since his school days.
Meanwhile, 'The Man Who Lives with the King' is a historical drama set in 1457 Cheongnyeongpo, depicting the story of the dethroned King Danjong, exiled to Yeongwol, and the village chief Eom Heung-do who receives him. The film stars Yoo Hae-jin, Park Ji-hoon, Yoo Ji-tae, and Jeon Mi-do.
On its 15th day of release, the film surpassed 4 million viewers on the 18th. This achievement is a day faster than 'The King and the Clown,' the first historical drama to attract 10 million viewers, proving its box office momentum. The film's success, coupled with the lighthearted revelations from the set, has further heightened public interest.
Kim Se-ah, TenAsia Reporter haesmik@tenasia.co.kr