Director Reveals Casting Journey of Hyun Bin as General Ahn Jung-geun in 'Harbin'

In a recent episode of MBC's radio show Perfect Day (완벽한 하루), the director of the film 'Harbin' (하얼빈), Woo Min-ho (우민호), shared insights into the casting of Hyun Bin (현빈) as General Ahn Jung-geun (안중근). During the broadcast, both Hyun Bin and Woo Min-ho discussed their experiences and the film's themes with DJ Lee Sang-soon (이상순).

Lee expressed curiosity about Hyun Bin's initial reluctance to take on the role, asking, "I heard you kept saying you wouldn't do it. Why was that?" Hyun Bin explained, "As an actor, portraying a real person is quite challenging. Everyone has their own perceptions of that individual, and there are established facts in existing materials that make it difficult to align with them."

He continued, "Once I decided to take on the role, I conducted extensive research. I sought out as much information as I could and had numerous discussions with the director to prepare."

Director Woo Min-ho humorously recounted how Hyun Bin seemed to avoid him initially. "I really wanted to meet him, regardless of whether he would take the role or not. I thought, as a fellow professional, I could at least treat him to a meal," he said.

Woo Min-ho also shared his first impression of Hyun Bin, stating, "When he walked in, I was taken aback. I've worked with renowned actors like Lee Byung-hun (이병헌) and Song Kang-ho (송강호), but Hyun Bin's presence was strikingly perfect. I was genuinely surprised."

Lee Sang-soon added, "I think many people will feel the same way." To which Woo Min-ho responded, "Seeing him in person was astonishing. His gaze was captivating. I wanted to see a different side of the hero Ahn Jung-geun—one that was human, filled with anguish and fear. I felt that depth in his eyes."

'Harbin' is set in 1909 and depicts the intense pursuit and suspicion between those heading to Harbin for a singular purpose and those chasing them. Hyun Bin's portrayal of General Ahn Jung-geun has been well-received since the film's release on December 24, where it continues to attract audiences nationwide.