Jo In-sung Shines in 'Humint': A Stellar Performance in Action and Emotion

Actor Jo In-sung delivers a compelling performance in the film 'Humint'.

Jo In-sung has once again proven his star power by driving the success of 'Humint', which premiered on the 11th. Directed by Ryoo Seung-wan, 'Humint' is set in the icy waters of Vladivostok, where individuals with different agendas clash. Jo In-sung plays the role of Cho, a National Intelligence Service black agent.

In the film, Jo In-sung's portrayal of Cho, a character who moves desperately to save lives behind his cold exterior, effectively maintains the film's tension throughout.

Particularly, Jo In-sung stands out by embodying the grand and profound emotion of 'humanity', convincingly depicting the most innate compassion and duty humans can have towards each other. This adds warmth to the spy action genre, opening a new horizon for human espionage films.

Jo In-sung's action sequences are also remarkable. From various gunfights to intense hand-to-hand combat, he flawlessly executes survival-driven action, providing visual delight to the audience. His action scenes serve as a tool to express Cho's urgent psyche, enhancing the film's immersion.

Moreover, Jo In-sung's nuanced emotional acting gives credibility to Cho's determination to save the new Humint, Chae Sun-hwa (played by Shin Se-kyung). His detailed portrayal of a character torn between past trauma and duty resonates beyond the dialogue, allowing audiences to naturally empathize with Cho's choices and the film's message.

Having previously collaborated with director Ryoo Seung-wan on 'Escape from Mogadishu' and 'Smugglers', Jo In-sung once again demonstrates their strong rapport in this film. He perfectly embodies the complex character designed by Ryoo with his unique flexibility and gravitas, showcasing his capabilities as an actor who ensures the film's quality.

In the film's opening and closing, Jo In-sung flawlessly fulfills his role, anchoring the beginning and end of 'Humint'. His performance, which remains steady amidst chaotic circumstances, is a key element in setting the film's tone and elevating its stature.

Through 'Humint', Jo In-sung has demonstrated his prowess as a 'national treasure actor' in acting, action, and visuals. His irreplaceable performance, combining overwhelming physical action with deep emotional acting, is hailed by audiences as the driving force behind the film's success.

Meanwhile, Jo In-sung, who has proven his presence and acting skills through 'Humint', is set to continue his relentless acting journey this year. Following the highly anticipated summer release of Na Hong-jin's new film 'Hope', he will also appear in 'Possible Love', the first Netflix film by renowned director Lee Chang-dong. Collaborating with top directors like Ryoo Seung-wan, Na Hong-jin, and Lee Chang-dong, Jo In-sung's impressive trajectory across screens and OTT platforms is expected to make 2026 undeniably 'the year of Jo In-sung'.

Reporter Kim Se-ah, TenAsia haesmik@tenasia.co.kr