Director Woo Min-ho Discusses Casting Challenges for 'Harbin' with Hyun Bin

Director Woo Min-ho (54) shared insights on the casting process for his upcoming action film 'Harbin' during an interview on December 19, 2024. He revealed that Hyun Bin, who plays the role of General Ahn Jung-geun, initially turned down the offer multiple times. Woo expressed his determination to keep pursuing Hyun Bin, stating, "I was committed to sending love calls until he agreed. If Hyun Bin had ultimately declined, I might not have made this film at all. But I would have continued to approach him, whether it was a year later or even ten years later."

Woo explained his vision for the character, wanting to portray a different side of the hero Ahn Jung-geun. He noted, "I wanted to depict the arduous and tormented journey of a defeated general heading to Harbin. He is not a Superman; his family is left behind in his homeland, and if he fails again, many comrades could die. I believed Hyun Bin had the right look for this character—soft yet sometimes sorrowful, with a strong resolve that I felt was essential for the role."

The director praised the dedication of the cast, highlighting how they endured challenging conditions during filming, including rolling in snow and mud. He noted that Hyun Bin insisted on performing his own stunts, even when doubles could have been used.

Additionally, Woo expressed admiration for Japanese actor Lily Franky, who plays Ito Hirobumi in the film. He recalled being impressed by Franky's performance in Hiroshi Kore-eda's 'Shoplifters' and was surprised when Franky accepted the role, as he initially thought he would decline. Franky appreciated the opportunity to take on such a significant character, acknowledging the symbolic weight of Ito Hirobumi's role.

'Harbin' is set in 1909 and follows a tense pursuit between those heading to Harbin for a common goal and those chasing them. The film features a star-studded cast, including Hyun Bin, Park Jung-min, Jo Woo-jin, Jeon Yeo-been, Park Hoon, Yoo Jae-myung, and Lee Dong-wook. Directed by Woo Min-ho, known for 'The Drug King' and 'The Man Standing Next,' the film is scheduled for release on December 24, 2024.