Director Woo Min-ho Reflects on the Journey of 'Harbin'

Director Woo Min-ho (54) expressed his initial shock upon receiving the proposal for 'Harbin', stating that it was originally pitched as a pure entertainment film. In an interview on December 19 in Samcheong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, he shared insights into the filmmaking process of the action movie 'Harbin', produced by Hive Media Corp.

Woo revealed that he stumbled upon the autobiography of General Ahn Jung-geun, who was just 30 years old during the Harbin Incident. Before this event, he faced significant criticism as a defeated general. The narration in the film draws from Ahn's actual words, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, whether it takes ten years or a hundred. Woo found this message profoundly resonant, especially in the face of life's adversities, making the story of 'Harbin' feel relevant to contemporary audiences.

Initially, Woo was hesitant to take on the project, feeling unworthy of portraying such a heroic figure who dedicated his life to the country. However, after contacting the production company to inquire about the director's position, he learned that many directors had declined the offer. Despite the risks involved, he was intrigued by the script, which he found surprisingly entertaining. He insisted on creating a more serious film rather than a light-hearted entertainment piece, seeking the production team's approval to approach the story with depth.

Woo acknowledged that while he made a bold choice, following the blockbuster formula does not guarantee success, which he believes is a current challenge for Korean cinema. He clarified that he enjoys blockbuster films but felt that 'Harbin' should not be treated as one. He believes that if the team pours their genuine effort into the film, the audience will recognize that sincerity.

During filming, Woo experienced unexpected challenges, such as a heavy snowfall in Gwangju, which had not occurred in fifty years. This weather anomaly, which was not part of the original setting for 'Harbin', felt like a gift from the heavens, adding an unexpected layer to the film.

'Harbin' depicts the intense pursuit and suspicion between those heading to Harbin for a common goal and those chasing them, set in 1909. 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', 'Harbin' is set to be released on December 24.