Director Kang Yoon-sung Discusses Casting Yunho for 'Pine: Country Bumpkins' at Disney Showcase

During the 'Disney Showcase' held at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore on November 21, 2024, director Kang Yoon-sung revealed how he cast Jung Yun-ho, the leader of the popular group TVXQ (동방신기), for his upcoming project 'Pine: Country Bumpkins' (파인: 촌뜨기들). The event featured a press conference for original content in the Asia-Pacific region, where the production teams and main actors from various Disney+ Korea originals, including 'Trigger', 'Pine', 'Hyperknife', 'Knock Off', and 'Nine Puzzle', shared insights about their works.

The press conference for 'Pine' included notable actors Ryu Seung-ryong, Yang Se-jong, and Lim Soo-jung, alongside director Kang. The series is based on the webtoon of the same name by writer Yoon Tae-ho and is anticipated to be another hit for Disney+, following the success of the 'Moving' series, which set viewership records.

A first-look video for 'Pine' was unveiled during the showcase, capturing attention with the appearance of Yunho, who is making a return to acting after his career as a top idol. Director Kang shared that he was introduced to Yunho through a mutual acquaintance and initially had doubts about his acting abilities. However, he noted, "As we worked on the project, I witnessed Jung Yun-ho's remarkable growth. I believe that once 'Pine' is released, audiences will recognize him not just as a member of TVXQ but as a genuine actor."

Kang also reflected on his creative motivation since debuting with the film 'The Outlaws', emphasizing the importance of crafting stories that pique the curiosity of viewers. He stated, "The most crucial aspect of any project is the story, and it must come across as fresh and engaging."

The 'Disney Showcase', which took place over two days starting November 20, 2024, allowed attendees to preview upcoming works from the Walt Disney Company. Approximately 500 journalists, influencers, and Disney partners from 12 Asia-Pacific countries, including South Korea, Singapore, Japan, China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, and Australia, were present at the event.

'Pine: Country Bumpkins' is set to premiere on Disney+ in 2025.