Star-Studded Cast Joins Director Nam Dong-hyub's New Film 'Gardeners'

Director Nam Dong-hyub, known for captivating audiences and critics alike with his film 'Handsome Guys', has confirmed the cast for his upcoming project 'Gardeners' (working title). The film will feature renowned actors Song Kang-ho, Koo Kyo-hwan, Song Seung-heon, Lee Kwang-soo, Shin Hyun-bin, and Lee Jae-in.

'Gardeners' tells the story of a civil servant whose only hobby is growing plants. He teams up with a local troublemaker to embark on a unique gardening business, leading their quiet town into unexpected chaos.

Song Kang-ho was the first to be cast, and Koo Kyo-hwan will play Kim Moon-ho, a neighborhood troublemaker who causes incidents wherever he goes. Known for his distinctive style in films like 'If We', 'Escape', 'Mogadishu', and the Netflix series 'D.P.', Koo is expected to bring his unique energy and charm to his unpredictable chemistry with Song Kang-ho. Notably, Koo recently surpassed one million viewers with 'If We'.

Song Seung-heon will portray Han Cheong-yong, a former music star who fell from grace due to an incident. Known for his roles in 'Hidden Face' and the drama 'My Precious Star', Song Seung-heon is set to showcase a dramatic transformation with his charismatic yet complex character.

Lee Kwang-soo, beloved for his multifaceted charm in both variety shows and projects like 'Piece City', 'Bad Connection', and 'Kong Kong Pat Pat', will play Song Sa-jang, a lottery shop owner and partner in the gardening business, adding vitality to the film.

Shin Hyun-bin takes on the role of Kang Mi-ae, a restaurant owner with a dangerous secret. Known for her versatile performances in films like 'Face', 'Revelation', and 'Beasts Clawing at Straws', as well as dramas like 'Say You Love Me', 'The Youngest Son of a Chaebol Family', and 'Hospital Playlist', Shin will bring a new tension to the film with her elegant yet cold character.

Lee Jae-in, known for her irreplaceable presence in diverse genres such as 'Concrete Market', 'High Five', 'Unknown Seoul', and 'Spring Fever', will make a special appearance as Choi Eun-soo, adding depth to the story.

Directed by Nam Dong-hyub, who showcased a blend of occult and comedy in 'Handsome Guys', 'Gardeners' promises to deliver witty humor and thrilling tension. Nam has been recognized at numerous film festivals, including the 23rd Directors' Cut Awards and the 57th Sitges Film Festival.

Produced by Hive Media Corp, known for hits like 'Spring in Seoul', 'Harbin', 'The Outlaws', and 'Inside Men', the film is expected to create a perfect synergy with Nam Dong-hyub. Cinematographer Hong Kyung-pyo, who won the Grand Prize at the 61st Baeksang Arts Awards for 'Harbin', will also join the project, enhancing its visual excellence.

'Gardeners' is currently in pre-production, aiming to begin filming in 2026.

By Ji-won Kim, TenAsia Reporter bella@tenasia.co.kr