On the 20th, an interview was conducted with Jung Woo (playing Jjangu) at a cafe in Samcheong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul. Jung Woo wrote the script for 'Jjangu', which is set to release on the 22nd, and he also stars in and directs the film. Notably, 'Jjangu' marks Jung Woo's directorial debut, with his wife Kim Yumi credited as a producer.
'Jjangu' is a humorous and passionate story of an aspiring actor, Jjangu (played by Jung Woo), who perseveres despite numerous audition rejections. The character Jjangu, from the film 'Wind', returns to the screen after 16 years.
Jung Woo, who showed great affection for his first directorial work by revising the script six to seven times, said, "I thought directing would help my acting and career as an actor." He added, "After 'Wind' gained popularity, I received interest from several production companies. However, I wasn't always keen on making a sequel. Although I have a deep affection for Busan, I was also cautious."
Having written the screenplay for 'Wind', Jung Woo now challenges himself as a director. He shared, "Initially, directing seemed daunting. Instead of focusing on distant goals, I felt overcoming small hurdles was like climbing a big mountain. The biggest support during filming was co-director Oh Seong-ho, who was a significant presence, accounting for more than 80% of the work."
He also expressed immense gratitude to his wife, actress Kim Yumi, who played a crucial role as a producer. She was instrumental in connecting him with the production company for 'Jjangu'. Jung Woo said, "Though credited as a producer, she showed abilities beyond that of a creator, for which I am truly thankful. As a writer, lead actor, and director, it was challenging to correct my path on set, and my wife provided much-needed support."
He added, "My wife, being from an arts high school and having studied systematically in this field, offered an objective perspective, which was incredibly helpful and reassuring."
Despite the support from colleagues, Jung Woo admitted to facing numerous challenges while preparing for 'Jjangu', as he had to juggle three roles on set. As an actor, he found it difficult to perform exaggerated acting convincingly.
He recalled, "I had to make the exaggerated acting entertaining for the audience. I wondered if I could make it my own and do it well. It led to the most takes."
Jung Woo also shared how he had to plead with colleagues for special appearances. He said, "I asked for many favors, pleading with senior and fellow actors for their participation, even if their roles were small." He added, "Director Jang Hang-jun graciously agreed to appear without a fee. In gratitude, I sent a coffee truck to the set of 'The Man Who Lives with the King'."
Despite the challenges, Jung Woo expressed gratitude for the process of creating a sequel after 16 years. He said, "I want to embark on meaningful journeys with those I work with. If asked how valuable and happy the process was, I would say it was joyful. The word 'gratitude' surpasses all others. Box office success is not my responsibility, so I want to enjoy it."
In closing, Jung Woo described 'Jjangu' as "a film not made to teach lessons, but to offer comfort and empathy to the youth."
Ryu Ye-ji, TenAsia Reporter ryuperstar@tenasia.co.kr