Director Ryoo Seung-wan Explores Romance in New Film 'Humint'

Renowned for his action-packed films, director Ryoo Seung-wan takes a surprising turn with his latest movie 'Humint', delving into the realm of romance. In an unexpected move, Ryoo places Park Jung-min at the center of the narrative, while Jo In-sung steps back. Despite never having filmed a kiss scene, Ryoo's approach to romance is both sweet and intense. His signature action style remains stylish and impactful. Ryoo also hinted at a possible reunion with his brother, actor Ryoo Seung-bum, and shared thoughts on 'Veteran 3'.

On October 20, director Ryoo Seung-wan discussed 'Humint' at a café in Anguk-dong, Seoul. The film unfolds in Vladivostok, where secrets and truths are submerged in icy waters, and characters with different motives clash.

In 'Humint', Ryoo chose to subvert expectations by placing Park Jung-min at the heart of the romance, while Jo In-sung takes a step back. Ryoo explained, "There was an intention to surprise. Having Jo In-sung in a romantic role is too predictable." He added, "Working with him over the years, I've seen him grow stronger. He's now capable of subtractive acting." Jo In-sung was aware of his role as a supporting pillar, allowing other actors to shine. Ryoo noted, "Even Park Jung-min didn't expect such a strong reaction to his romantic storyline."

Park Jung-min showcases a new side not only in romance but also in action. When asked about his method for drawing out an actor's potential, Ryoo humorously admitted, "I constantly gaslight them, telling them, 'You're the only one who can do this.'" He added, "Once they achieve it, even the actors are surprised."

This film minimizes humor, opting instead for tension. Ryoo explained, "Entertainment isn't just about fun; it can also come from awe and tension. It's important to show the state of an actor with a certain energy. My trust in the actors made it possible."

When labeled as a 'master of romance', Ryoo laughed, "Sometimes I feel that way." He revealed, "I've always been restrained since my debut and have never filmed a kiss scene." He recalled discussing with Jo In-sung, "How do you shoot a kissing scene? If that day comes, I might need to call someone. This is the maximum level of romance for me."

Ryoo worked on 'Humint' with the theme of 'farewell'. He explained, "I thought a lot about farewells, not just the story of Park Geon (played by Park Jung-min) and Chae Seon-hwa (played by Shin Se-kyung). 'Berlin' was also a farewell story, but the weight of farewell is different now." He emphasized, "Everything eventually ends, and farewells are inevitable. It makes you think about how to part ways and what constitutes a beautiful farewell."

Director Ryoo Seung-wan has collaborated with his brother, actor Ryoo Seung-bum, on several projects, including 'Die Bad' (2000), 'Arahan' (2004), 'The Unjust' (2010), and 'The Berlin File' (2013). Fans eagerly await another collaboration between the brothers, whose synergy combines raw energy with genre thrills.

Ryoo shared, "I've been talking with Seung-bum about this lately. He took a break from acting, and I suggested working together, but he wasn't interested." He added, "Seung-bum's current motivation for acting is more for his daughter than himself. As she grows, she might wonder why her dad is always home. He doesn't want to appear unemployed." Ryoo hinted, "I'd like to bring him in front of my camera. Seung-bum also feels it's time to start again."

Ryoo is also preparing for his next project, 'Veteran 3'. He stated, "I'm revising the script for 'Veteran 3'. While the second film was for me, the third will return to the tone and manner that audiences enjoyed." He is coordinating schedules with actor Hwang Jung-min.

Having spent over 30 years in the film industry, Ryoo Seung-wan often discusses the future of Korean cinema with his 'persona and close friend' Jo In-sung. Ryoo expressed, "We think about how to nurture the next generation and pass on the playground we enjoyed. I want to return theaters to being a playground for audiences."

Commenting on the current state of Korean cinema, Ryoo remarked, "We can't help the changing times. It's not just about blaming success or failure." He compared theaters to public baths, noting, "After COVID-19, more than half of the public baths in Seoul disappeared. People might ask why go to a bathhouse when you can shower at home. But some remember scrubbing and drinking banana milk there. To attract people, there needs to be something better, like a sauna or baked eggs. It's the same with movies."

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