Netflix's 'Gyeongseong Creature' Returns with Season 2: Director Promises Improved Editing

The much-criticized 'Gyeongseong Creature' returns with its second season after a year. The director, responding to public feedback, has re-edited the series, raising curiosity about whether this could turn the tide.

On the 25th, a production presentation for Netflix's 'Gyeongseong Creature' Season 2 was held at Dragon City in Yongsan-gu, Seoul. The event was attended by actors Park Seo-joon, Han So-hee, Lee Moo-saeng, Bae Hyun-sung, and director Jung Dong-yoon.

'Gyeongseong Creature' Season 2 is set in Seoul in 2024, where 'Hojai,' who resembles 'Tae-sang' in every way, meets 'Chae-ok,' who survived the spring of Gyeongseong. The story delves into the unfinished connections, fates, and adversities of Gyeongseong. Set against the backdrop of Gyeongseong in 1945, it portrays the tragedy born of monstrous human greed and the poignant romance of two youths fighting against it.

Director Jung Dong-yoon said, "I carefully reviewed the feedback from the last season. When Season 1 was released, Season 2 was almost complete. I requested another round of editing to ensure a more engaging and relatable experience."

He added, "We didn't want our efforts to go to waste. Although we don't know how this season will be received, we tried to incorporate as much feedback as possible and share the sentiment."

Park Seo-joon, who plays 'Hojai,' a character resembling 'Tae-sang,' said, "It's been a while since we finished filming, so it doesn't feel real yet. It's an honor to share the hard times we went through. It was tough but fun. I hope viewers will rewatch Season 1."

Comparing the two seasons, he noted, "We often filmed in rural areas due to the historical setting of Season 1. Season 2, set in modern times, felt fresh despite being the same series. Transitioning from the past to the present was novel."

He continued, "I tried to change my styling to highlight the differences. The change in the historical backdrop meant different professions and emotional arcs, which was challenging."

Han So-hee, who plays 'Chae-ok,' a character who swallowed 'Najin' in the past Gyeongseong and now lives in present-day Seoul without aging or dying, said, "The historical changes didn't significantly affect Chae-ok. I focused on how to portray her. As a character enduring time alone, I concentrated on her mindset."

She added, "I tried wire action for the first time. (Being suspended for so long) cured my fear of heights. The superhuman strength required faster and more precise movements. We practiced a lot and synchronized our actions beforehand."

Lee Moo-saeng, who plays 'Captain Kuroko,' the leader of the secret elite agents, newly joined the cast in Season 2. He said, "I was happy to work with Park Seo-joon and Han So-hee. I saw the hard work they put into Season 1. I hope I can be of help. I hope everyone enjoys this moment."

Regarding his intense eye acting, Lee joked, "I thought my eyeballs would pop out," and added, "I focused on the situation and the energy from my co-actors. I tried not to be outdone."

Bae Hyun-sung, who plays 'Seung-jo,' a character with special abilities chasing 'Hojai' and 'Chae-ok,' said, "I joined through an audition. It will feel different from what I've shown so far." He added, "I've seen action scenes from my seniors' previous works. As it was my first time doing action, I was worried, but it was a learning experience."

'Gyeongseong Creature 2' will be released on Netflix on the 27th.

Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr