Parasite Screenwriter Han Jin-won Makes Directorial Debut with 'Running Mate'

Han Jin-won, known for his screenplay work on the Oscar-winning film 'Parasite', has made his directorial debut.

On the 12th, a press conference for the TVING original drama 'Running Mate' was held at the Stanford Hotel in Sangam, Mapo-gu, Seoul. The event was attended by director Han Jin-won, actors Yoon Hyun-soo, Lee Jung-sik, Choi Woo-sung, Hong Hwa-yeon, Lee Bong-jun, and Kim Ji-woo.

'Running Mate' is a high-teen political drama that follows No Se-hoon (played by Yoon Hyun-soo), who becomes the subject of ridicule after an unexpected incident. He is nominated as a vice-presidential candidate in the student council election and navigates through various schemes to aim for victory.

Director Han Jin-won, who helmed 'Running Mate', expressed his excitement, saying, "I am thrilled and nervous to take the baton from TVING's famous school dramas like 'Pyramid Game' and 'Study Group'. 'Running Mate' tells the story of six boys and girls who dive into the election scene, filled with sweat and determination. We tried to incorporate bright and positive elements to give viewers a good feeling."

Han mentioned, "Unintentionally, the release coincides with the presidential election period. I hope viewers can discover aspects they expected but didn't see in reality through 'Running Mate'." He emphasized, "It's not about who you support; it's about experiencing the election as a celebration of society's members."

He also shared his expectations for the project, stating, "'Running Mate' encompasses a wide range of emotions such as desire, envy, jealousy, respect, longing, energy, and vibrancy. I hope this work serves as a platform for you to reminisce about your memories."

'Running Mate' will be fully released on TVING on the 19th.

Reported by Se-yoon Jung, TenAsia yoon@tenasia.co.kr