Kim Hye-yoon Ventures into Horror with 'Salmoji': A Spine-Chilling Experience

Actress Kim Hye-yoon takes on the horror genre with the film 'Salmoji', directed by Lee Sang-min, which promises a unique horror experience set against the backdrop of a mysterious reservoir. The cast shared various stories from eerie experiences during filming to behind-the-scenes of underwater shoots.

On the 24th, a press screening and conference for 'Salmoji' was held at CGV Yongsan I'Park Mall in Yongsan-gu, Seoul. Director Lee Sang-min, along with actors Kim Hye-yoon, Lee Jong-won, Kim Jun-han, Kim Young-sung, Oh Dong-min, Yoon Jae-chan, and Jang Da-ah attended the event.

'Salmoji' follows a road view filming team that returns to the reservoir after an unidentified shape is captured on camera, amidst strange rumors surrounding the place. Director Lee expressed his aim to give audiences an immersive horror experience, stating, "I wanted to create a film where viewers feel like they're being haunted by a water ghost."

Lee, who is debuting his first feature film, shared his passion for horror, having previously worked on short horror films. He mentioned, "I discussed the concept of 'Salmoji' with the production company and felt we could present a unique visual with elements like water ghosts."

The director utilized the 'jump scare' technique, where sudden appearances shock the audience. He explained, "I enjoy such elements in horror films. Jump scares are not just about the surprise but also about the timing and buildup of tension. It's an idea battle on how to scare effectively."

The screening was held in a SCREENX theater, allowing for a three-sided viewing experience. Director Lee noted the vividness of the road view and car scenes, saying, "The scenes felt alive and immersive with the large, moving screens."

Kim Hye-yoon plays Han Soo-in, a PD at the road view service company Onroad Media. She shared, "The reservoir at night was terrifying, with a strong eerie and ominous vibe."

Horror films have often been a stepping stone for actresses. Kim expressed her excitement, "I love horror films, and the script was intriguing. I wanted to explore the character, and I believe it will be a valuable addition to my career." She also mentioned undergoing training for underwater scenes to ensure safety.

Lee Jong-won portrays Yoon Ki-tae, a PD at Onroad Media. He shared his experience, "Even stepping on branches or mud felt eerie, like encountering a scary sculpture. Every moment of filming was chilling."

Lee also discussed preparing for underwater scenes, stating, "I had to be capable of diving to rescue someone in the film. I trained for about three months before filming, gaining confidence in underwater acting."

Kim Hye-yoon and Lee Jong-won play former lovers in the film. Lee humorously noted, "We bickered like real exes, which made us close but not necessarily comfortable, as exes aren't usually comfortable."

Kim Jun-han plays Woo Kyo-sik, the team leader of Onroad Media, who goes missing after a trip to Salmoji. He recounted a strange incident, "I saw a child who might have been a ghost. Back at the accommodation, the sensor light flickered. When I said 'stop', it turned off. Such experiences seem to happen with this genre."

Kim Young-sung and Oh Dong-min appear as brothers, playing the roles of Song Kyung-tae and Song Kyung-jun, respectively. Oh expressed gratitude to Kim for helping him open up, while Kim reciprocated, "Thanks to Dong-min, our brotherly chemistry was great."

Both actors shared eerie experiences during filming. Kim mentioned a sudden halt in a phone call, while Oh described the isolation and eerie atmosphere, "The fear of being pulled into the reservoir and the stark temperature differences made the nights feel more ominous."

Yoon Jae-chan plays Jang Sung-bin, the youngest PD at Onroad Media, while Jang Da-ah stars as Moon Se-jung, who runs a 'Horror Exploration' channel. The two portray a couple in the film.

Yoon shared, "Entering the filming location cut off data and communication, except near the water, which was eerie." Jang recalled, "The limited space had a significant impact, feeling more ominous at night and even during the day."

Jang Da-ah makes her screen debut with 'Salmoji', two years after her debut in 2024. She expressed her gratitude, "I had a dream of buying a ticket to see my film on the big screen. I'm thankful for the opportunity to work with a captivating script and talented senior actors."

She added, "I was busy noting areas for improvement while watching the film today. I want to watch it again to fully appreciate it."

Jang expressed her gratitude to the director for entrusting her with a different character, "The script was intriguing, and I didn't hesitate to take on the role. It was a significant experience for my acting career."

'Salmoji' is set to release on April 8.

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