Ha Jung-woo Returns to Theaters with 'Lobby' Amid Health Concerns

Actor and director Ha Jung-woo is set to make his return to the big screen this April alongside a talented cast. The press and distribution preview for the film 'Lobby' took place on March 25 at CGV Yongsan I-Park Mall in Seoul. Attendees included actors Kim Eui-sung, Kang Hae-rim, Lee Dong-hwi, Park Byeong-eun, Kang Mal-geum, Choi Si-won, Cha Joo-young, and Kwak Sun-young. Unfortunately, Ha Jung-woo was unable to attend due to an emergency appendectomy.

Scheduled for release on April 2, 'Lobby' tells the story of Chang-wook (played by Ha Jung-woo), a startup CEO who knows nothing but research, as he embarks on his first-ever lobbying golf game to secure a 4 trillion won national project. This film marks Ha Jung-woo's third directorial effort following 'Roller Coaster' and 'Huh Sam-kwan'.

Kim Eui-sung shared that Ha Jung-woo expressed his regrets for missing the event due to his unexpected illness, assuring everyone that it was not serious and hoping for a cheerful atmosphere during the press conference. Reflecting on the film, he mentioned, "This is my second time watching the movie today, and I find it even more enjoyable than the first time."

Park Byeong-eun also expressed his disappointment, stating, "Ha Jung-woo wanted to be here but had to undergo emergency surgery. We exchanged messages this morning, and he was very upset about missing this event. He told the doctor he wanted to attend, but was advised against it due to potential risks."

The ensemble cast delivered strong performances, with Kim Eui-sung portraying a veteran public servant, Director Choi. He described his character as someone experienced in handling public affairs fairly, but with a notable weakness: an excessive admiration for a female professional golfer that overshadows his strengths. He humorously noted, "I was surprised by how different the final product turned out compared to my expectations. I thought I was a gentleman in real life, but I worried that I might not appear that way on screen. However, the character's flaws highlight the purity and integrity of Jin-pro, the professional golfer."

Park Byeong-eun, who plays Chang-wook's rival, Kwang-woo, mentioned their long-standing friendship, having known each other since university, which helped in developing their on-screen relationship.

Kang Hae-rim and Cha Joo-young are making their screen debuts in 'Lobby'. Kang plays Jin-pro, the favorite golfer of Director Choi, while Cha portrays Dami, the wife of the golf course owner. Kang shared her experience of playing a golfer who faces challenges after developing the yips, stating, "I felt like the most normal person in the film. I practiced for five hours a day for five months to perfect my golfing posture."

Cha described her character as a free spirit who feels stifled by her controlling husband until she encounters a past love, revealing hidden emotions. She emphasized her commitment to the script and her efforts to harmonize with her senior co-stars.

Choi Si-won, who plays the former top star Ma Tae-soo, praised Cha Joo-young's acting skills, expressing gratitude for their time together and hoping for future collaborations.

Lee Dong-hwi plays a reporter who introduces Chang-wook to Director Choi, while Kang Mal-geum portrays a highly ambitious Minister Jo, and Kwak Sun-young plays Chang-wook's right-hand woman, Director Kim.

In discussing the film's appeal, Kim Eui-sung remarked, "'Lobby' is a wonderfully strange and entertaining movie. I believe audiences will enjoy the humor and, at some point, realize that this is something we shouldn't overlook in our lives. I hope the joy I felt on set translates to the audience."