Lee Byung Hun 이병헌 Byunghun Lee

[willenette]

*** “Concrete Utopia”  is now streaming on Viu Philippines (in original Korean with English subtitles and in Tagalog-dubbed version). This movie was warmly received in international film festivals. In its country of origin, South Korea, the movie gained many recognitions.   

 

 

 

[willenette]

*** When Na Young Suk (also known as Na PD) asked Lee Dong Wook if there were any of his fellow actors that he was jealous of, he mentioned Lee Byung Hun. He said that he looks up to him most—with a bit of friendly envy.  

 

 

 

 

 

[willenette]

10 best Lee Byung Hun movies and K-dramas; Squid Game and more

Lee Byung Hun is a popular South Korean actor known for his roles in dramas like Squid Game, Mr Sunshine, Our Blues, Masquerade and more. Here is a look at best Lee Byung Jun movies and K-dramas.

Lee Byung Hun has made a mark for himself in the South Korean entertainment industry with his amazing acting skills. The actor also made a global impact with K-dramas like Squid Games, Mr Sunshine, Our Blues and more which were enjoyed by audiences from around the globe. He made his debut in 1991 with the drama Flowers That Never Wilt and has now been a part of the industry for decades. Here are 10 best Lee Byung Hun movies and K-dramas which are a must-watch. 

 

• Squid Game

Director: Hwang Dong Hyuk

Cast: Lee Byung Hoon, Park Hae Soo, Jung Ho Yeon, Wi Ha Joon, Lee Jung Jae

Genre: Thriller, Psychological 

IMDB rating: 8

Release Date: September 17, 2021

Squid Game is a Korean drama series based on a survival game. Squid Game Season 2 has also been confirmed by Netflix which is expected to release by the end of 2024. The second season will also star Kang Ha Neul, In Siwan, Park Sung Hoon, former BIGBANG member T.O.P and more. Lee Byung Hun will also be returning for the latest season. 

 

• Mr Sunshine

Director: Lee Eung Bok 

Cast: Lee Byung Hun, Kim Tae Ri, Yoo Yeon Seok, Byun Yo Han, Kim Min Jung

Genre: Historical, drama, romance

IMDB rating: 8.7

Release Date: July 7, 2018 

Mr Sunshine is set in the 1870s when Korea was under colonial rule. The drama tells the story of a young boy who goes to America to survive and returns to Korea as a U.S. marine officer. He falls in love with a woman who fights to free Korea from the colonial powers. 

• Our Blues

Director: Kim Kyu Tae, Lee Jung Mook

Cast: Lee Byung Hun, Shin Min Ah, Choi Seung Hoon, Lee Jung Eun, Uhm Jung Hwa, Kim Woo Bin 

Genre: Romance, life, drama

IMDB rating: 8.6

Release Date: April 9, 2022

Our Blues is a charming slice-of-life series that features an ensemble of great South Korean actors. The heart-warming series received a lot of love for being easygoing and making the audience feel a plethora of emotions without ever feeling bored. The show is a beautiful enactment of the ups and downs of love and life. The drama tells multiple different stories of the people who reside on the scenic shores of Jeju Island. 

• Masquerade

Director: Choo Chang Min 

Cast: Lee Byung Hoon, Han Hyo Joo, Ryu Seung Ryong

Genre: Historical, Drama

IMDB rating: 7.8

Release Date: September 13, 2012 

King Gwang Hae is a tyrannical monarch who asks his councillor to find him a body double. A common peasant is chosen for a task. After the King’s sudden demise from poisoning, the peasant hesitantly becomes the King and has to keep on the masquerade. 

• I Saw the Devil

Director: Kim Jee Won 

Cast: Lee Byung Hun, Choi Min Shik

Genre: Thriller, action, psychological

IMDB rating: 7.8

Release Date: August 12, 2010

The daughter of a retired police officer falls victim to a psychopath murderer. Her fiance is an underground agent and takes it upon himself to find the killer and get his revenge even if it means that he himself will have to become the villain. 

• Beautiful My Lady

Director: Lee Jang Soo

Cast: Lee Byung Hun, Shim Eun Ha

Genre: Romance, melodrama

IMDB rating: 8.5

Release Date: April 19, 1997

Jun Ho has grown up on his own with determination and grit with no one by his side. He gets an opportunity to fight in the boxing ring and make something of himself. Jun Ho and a woman who lost her husband tragically, find love and hope with one another. 

• Keys to the Heart 

Director: Choi Sung Hyun

Cast: Lee Byung Hun, Park Jung Min, Young Yuh Jung, Han Ji Min 

Genre: Music, Comedy, Drama

IMDB rating: 7.4

Release Date: January 17, 2018

The heartwarming story is of a boxer who loses his fame and returns to live with his mother and brother who is on the autism spectrum. His brother has amazing skills when it comes to playing the piano, playing video games and cooking ramen. 

Iris

Director:  Kim Kyu Tae, Yang Yoon Ho

Cast: Lee Byung Hun, Kim Tae Hee, Jung Joon Ho, Kim So Yeon, Kim Seung Woo 

Genre: Thriller, Romance

IMDB rating: 7.7

Release Date: October 14, 2009

Two friends get selected as NSS after they receive rigorous training. Their life takes a turn when they both fall in love with the same woman. 

• The Good, The Bad, The Weird

Director: Kim Jee Won, Shin Min Jae

Cast: Lee Byung Hun, Jung Woo Sung, Song Kang Ho

Genre: Historical, action, comedy 

IMDB rating: 7.2

Release Date: July 17, 2008

This film is inspired by the 1966 Italian film The Good, the Bad and the Ugly. The story is about two outlaws and a bounty hunter in 1940s Manchuria. They all try to get their hands on a treasure map. 

• Asphalt My Hometown

Director: Choo Chang Min 

Cast: Lee Byung Hun, Kim Young Ae

Genre: Drama

Release Date: November 6, 1991

This series was one of Lee Byung Hun’s first projects and was released in the same year as his debut. Despite being his early project, the actor took on the main role. 

Conclusion 

Lee Byung Hun is a phenomenal actor and has proved his skills and capabilities over the last several years of his career.

 

From action to romance, comedy and more; the versatile actor has done it all. His films Joint Security Area, The Good, the Bad, the Weird, "\Masquerade, Inside Men and Master are some of the highest-grossing films in South Korea. The list includes the best Lee Byung Hun movies and K-dramas that you should not skip. 

 

 

 

source : https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/10-best-lee-byung-hun-movies-and-k-dramas-squid-game-and-more-1283613

[Ephoenix]

March 5, 2024 

 

Cho Seung Woo, who is 10 years younger than Lee Byung hun, said, “I talked (casually) to him first.” “Lee Byung Hun Hyung hard carried ‘Inside Men’ movie.” 

 

Actor Cho Seung woo recently appeared for the first time in YouTube on Jung Jae Hyung’s ‘Fairy Table’, where he shared some interesting fun backstory about working with LBH, and how he as a younger one had to drop the honorifics first to get close to LBH, because LBH just wouldn’t talk casually with him at all. Lol. 

 

When asked if he was intimidated by LBH not just because he is a lot senior than him but also because he was playing a gangster: 

 

 

CSW: No, not really. In the case of LBH hyung, I purposely worked beforehand to befriend him. It’s because that hyung would never drop honorifics with me. He was always like, “Oh, is that how it was, Seung Woo -ssi?”. I thought this is not going to work. So, I dropped the honorifics first. I would go very casually like, “Did you eat?”, “Your make up looks awesome today.” “Hyung! Talk like friends!^^~”. That’s how our dynamics got better, and it happened while we were acting as well.

 

At first, I thought Woo Jang Hoon is a bit predictable character. He was someone who’d pursue Ahn Sang Goo, try to prove and use him to get to his goal and his justice. He wasn’t in the original webtoon. From my pov, he really wasn’t that charming of a character. Plus, there was an existing pressure to speak in dialect as well. Even when you watch the movie, and know they are all main characters, but I definitely thought my role was a side character. ‘Inside Men’ definitely belonged to Ahn Sang Goo, and Byung Hun Hyungie really hard carried the whole movie. 

 

Regarding how his acting of being hit and choked by Ahn Sang Goo in the bathroom scene being so real and convincing:

 

CSW: That’s because (Byung Hun hyung) pushed really hard. I thought I would die. That hyung is a lot stronger than you think. He doesn’t cut any slack when it comes to action scenes. It’s no joke. He is someone I know who is very good in performing actions.

*Proceeds to act like ASG hitting WJH*…. C’mon! Let’s take it easy please!”  

 

 

Hahahaha……. It’s never a dull moment whenever CSW talks about LBH. There is so much respect and admiration, but there is also the same amount of playful dissing as well. The man is 90% sass and he just never misses a chance to tease his hyung.  

 

I doubt we will ever see them in one movie/drama again but seriously even a small variety show would do too. Please work together again in the future.

 

YouTube link: https://youtu.be/Iw9N86S2lh8?si=DgQIP-vqJ8R8Phoy

[Sleepy Owl]

Quick Poll: Evil Ladies of Kdramas

Vote for your favorite Female Villains in Kdramas 

[Ephoenix]

March 7, 2024 

 

Congratulations, Lee Byung Hun!!!

Winner of the Best Actor Award  at the 22nd Director’s Cut Awards, for Concrete Utopia!! 👏

 

Pic: LBH Instagram 

 

It was mentioned that the Actors who showed best performance of the year, was selected by Korean Film Directors themselves through voting. 

 

This year’s Director’s Cut Awards unlike their previous ceremonies was held privately with about 150 people, including DGK’s (Korean Film Director’s Association) representative Directors and associate members in attendance. Directors Bong Joon Ho, Park Chan Wook, and Kim Han Min were among the top Directors in attendance as well. Unlike the previous years of holding the ceremony through live broadcasts, it was held privately this year with a sole intention to recreate the feel of early days of Cinema, when everyone supported and encouraged each other. It was said that the videos of the event will be released on their official YouTube channel after the ceremony. 

 

Lee Byung Hun after receiving his Best Actor award from Park Hae il, who was the winner for the previous year. With Directors Bong Man Dae and Jang Hang Joon, who were hosting the ceremony. He looks so beautiful with his long hair. Really missed him so much!!  

 

 

Spoiler

From LBH’s Manager Choi Young Hoon’s IG 

 

Both Lee Byung Hun and Kim Sun Young won Best Actor and Best Actress respectively for Concrete Utopia at the ceremony. Huge congratulations to both of them!!! Our Best Actor and Best Actress, Yeoreobun!!! ❤️‍🔥

 

[willenette]

8 hours ago, Ephoenix said:

March 7, 2024 

 

Congratulations, Lee Byung Hun!!!

Winner of the Best Actor Award  at the 22nd Director’s Cut Awards, for Concrete Utopia!! 👏

 

Pic: LBH Instagram 

 

It was mentioned that the Actors who showed best performance of the year, was selected by Korean Film Directors themselves through voting. 

 

This year’s Director’s Cut Awards unlike their previous ceremonies was held privately with about 150 people, including DGK’s (Korean Film Director’s Association) representative Directors and associate members in attendance. Directors Bong Joon Ho, Park Chan Wook, and Kim Han Min were among the top Directors in attendance as well. Unlike the previous years of holding the ceremony through live broadcasts, it was held privately this year with a sole intention to recreate the feel of early days of Cinema, when everyone supported and encouraged each other. It was said that the videos of the event will be released on their official YouTube channel after the ceremony. 

 

Lee Byung Hun after receiving his Best Actor award from Park Hae il, who was the winner for the previous year. With Directors Bong Man Dae and Jang Hang Joon, who were hosting the ceremony. He looks so beautiful with his long hair. Really missed him so much!!  

 

From LBH’s Manager Choi Young Hoon’s IG 

 

Both Lee Byung Hun and Kim Sun Young won Best Actor and Best Actress respectively for Concrete Utopia at the ceremony. Huge congratulations to both of them!!! Our Best Actor and Best Actress, Yeoreobun!!! ❤️‍🔥

 

 

@Ephoenix  Congratulations, Lee Byung Hun! The competition was fierce, especially for the Best Actor in the film category.  

[peonie]

On 3/8/2024 at 7:02 AM, Ephoenix said:

 

Congratulations, Lee Byung Hun!!!

Winner of the Best Actor Award  at the 22nd Director’s Cut Awards, for Concrete Utopia!! 👏

 

 

Thank you @Ephoenix for the wonderful news.  It is an honour to receive this award because the award was selected by Directors rather than fans.  

 

I hope he will be selected as Best Actor  for the Baeksang Arts Awards 2024 as well.  

[Ephoenix]

March 9, 2024

 

LBH and LMJ spotted having a meal date together 👩‍❤️‍👨

 

LBH looks so much leaner from the sides and that razor sharp jawline is even more prominent. His hair and that side burn indeed has gotten so much longer and I am loving this look so much on him. 😍

 

 

I think this is the 2nd post-award sighting of them having a meal together in the past few months. Last time, it was after the Blue Dragon awards where LBH almost made a rice cake of that fried rice with too much stirring and acting like a Salt bae sprinkling salt lol. OP said it was a rush rush because of some issues with reservation, and praised them for their politeness and great sense. It’s really nice to see them out and about having good time together. 💞

 

Pic: Seong Deok Restaurant IG 

https://www.instagram.com/p/C4SmNZMJJRd/?igsh=eW40YzNrODd5aTJw

[Ephoenix]

March 13, 2023 

 

Eugene’s Baby Lion has finally joined BH Entertainment!!! ‘Because he can!’ 

 

 

BH Entertainment sure is collecting all of LBH’s onscreen babies like collecting pokemons. It was Kim Si-a earlier, and now Jang Dong Yoon has joined BH Entertainment. 

 

This is not entirely related to LBH but it is quite an emotional moment for me personally. Like Eugene taking Jun Yeong under his wings, their story also have found its path and now Jang Dong Yoon has joined the BH family. Although this time it’s not a fake document they are signing but a real one, haha. And, they share the same birthdays!!! 🥰

 

I hope BH becomes a great supportive family to him, and I hope we get to see LBH working with him again in the future. 🙏

[Ephoenix]

March 19, 2024 

 

Lee Byung Hun Instagram update: 

 

Lee Byung Hun at the MLB 2024 Seoul VIP Event today, which was presented by Coupang play, Visit California, and the other two tourism organization of Los Angeles and San Diego. The event seem to have been held at Habib House, the residence of the US Ambassador to the ROK, and the ambience just reminds me of Eugene’s office. *In Mori Takashi’s accent*, “Is that you, Eugene? Long time no see!”  

 

 

Context: Major League Baseball has recently been endeavoring on an International World Tour. Various sites around the world have hosted teams for regular season games, and Seoul, South Korea was chosen as the first of three locations in 2024. Two games between Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres will be held at the Gocheok Skydome on Wednesday and Thursday. 

 

 

From the looks of it, it seems like he’s one of the honorary guests at the event. I mean rightfully so, because he’s one of the prominent actors representing South Korea and someone who has been actively participating in promoting tourism of state of California. Since, Visit California is also one of the presenters, there couldn’t have been more perfect candidate than him to represent both of two worlds for sure. And he’s indeed become leaner. Squid game is sucking the weight off him. I am not even kidding here! :b

[Ephoenix]

March 20, 2024 

 

[ENG] Lee Byung Hun’s Best Actor Award speech at the 22nd Director’s cut Awards 

 

 

His award speech session was very long so bear with me, friends! The friendly banters between LBH and the two Director MCs were really entertaining. Since it was a private event, everyone was very chill, with two directors keeping no filter whatsoever when talking with guests on the stage. They did not spare a moment to get the most out of it when LBH was on stage as well. 

Director Bong Man Dae and Director Jang Hang Joon were the MCs. 

 

[Translations] 

MCs: Congratulations! 

LBH: Thank you very much! I really feel like I am honored with a great award. Seeing the lineup of nominees again, I couldn’t help but witness the greatness of this award. You mentioned that there was a lot of tossing and turning during the process of judging. Even so, I feel like our directors worked really meticulously and keenly when voting (for the winner.) 

BMD: Yes, that’s right. 

LBH: It was just a joke.^^

 

LBH: But honestly, I really feel happy and delighted whenever I attend the Director’s cut awards. I don’t think there are any award ceremonies like this where throughout the ceremony, you have a good time, drink comfortably, reunite with directors and your colleagues after a long time. I also have been part of it for 22 years, and I think its the most joyful and a long-awaited event for all filmmakers. 

 

JHJ: As a matter of fact, this is your third win, right? 

LBH: Yes! 

JHJ: ‘Inside Men’, ‘The Man Standing Next’, and ‘Concrete Utopia’ 

LBH: Yes….*speechless* *embarrassed* “lost train of thought* ^^~ 

BMD: You were the presenter in the year ‘23, and was the winner the previous year. Also, I think we have one more thing that we should be congratulating him about, right? 

JHJ: Ah yes, there is something he should really be congratulated for. 

BMD: Ummm… would you care to explain? 

 

LBH: Ah… yes. Umm…. It’s a bit a..wk…ward to announce it at this age, *makes the crowd burst into laughter* but I have been blessed with a daughter who is 80 days old. Even before I came here, I was looking after her. I am at this stage where even while I am enjoying and having a great time here, her image keeps flashing in front of my eyes. *Awwwww Appa Byung Hun is so cute!* 

BMD: It’s a huge reward in itself. 

JHJ: Also, don’t you think you really proved yourself healthy (his reproductive function Lmao) after having a daughter? You’ve done a great job! *I cant believe this Director actually asked that!! He was talking about pure fatherly joy and suddenly it became a subject of potency.😂* 

LBH” *bursts into laughter* 

BMD: Are you saying you actually need to have a child to prove it? 

LBH: You know there is Al Pacino as well. ^^~ *Not him giving the example of his ‘Misconduct’ co-star lol* 

 

LBH: I …umm…I forgot what I was saying… Actually, there is something I wanted to say since we have directors, my colleagues, and juniors present at the moment. I wonder why we, especially when we were young, and had someone we really wanted to work with, we’d just go and say, “Director-nim, I really wish for us to work together someday.”, and the Director would also say the same to the actor who always caught his eyes, saying, “Oh yeah, lets work together, someday.”, and then, “Let’s really work together later.”….but honestly, there is no such thing as “Later” *He really sounded like Dong seok at this moment*. From my own experience, there is a director I really wanted to work with, but our circle never really matched. Sometimes our schedules didn’t match, and sometimes also because of the duration of the time they took in-between projects. There has been about 15 years where I’ve waited for their “Later”. So, if you really wish to work with someone, you have to propose them right away. It goes to both directors and to the actors, as I think it is very crucial to express your love to each other.

*Director PCW at the audience must be cackling at this because it definitely sounded like him. During CU GV, he did mention LBH keep asking to work with him and he telling LBH to come back after getting some wrinkles because he’s too youthful and handsome. Lol. And they really did miss so many because of their scheduling conflicts later on. Sigh* 

 

DMD: As we know you’ve been consistently working with some director, but I think you haven’t worked with Director Lee Jun-ik, have you? 

LBH: Yes, That’s right! 

DMD: So who is avoiding who here?? 

LBH: Ohh…no. It’s not like that. I’ve had meetings with Director-nim many times as well, and he’s rather someone who is in the top priority list in my bucket list of Directors that I want to work with. Director-nim, please do take care of me! *bows* 

JHJ: Ah…. I am so jealous! Lee Jun-ik, King of Motorcycles! 

DMD: Actually, Director Lee Jun-ik is preparing for something really big. It’s something equivalent to saying its his retirement piece. It’s a really big scale movie, and its also releasing in OTT. Just saying if you have a chance to meet him personally later on…

LBH: Since he’s sitting right behind me, I will only ask about this from now onwards. 

DMD: (to Dir. LJI): Director-nim, It has to be done right away! It’s not the time to be picky! Lol 

DMD: Anyway, we have always been grateful and now we are almost like a family too. Do you perhaps wish to venture into directing? 

LBH: Oh….Not really! I only intend to give my best to do one thing. 

JHJ: Oh, thats a huge relief… our livelihood c’mon. 

DMD: Our livelihood would sure be at risk, if that was the case. Haha . 

 

DMD: Anyway, it’s a given that Lee Byung hun ssi always manages to choose great works for himself. And this movie is also after the pandemic. I hope you work on a lot again, so there won’t be much side effects. Especially, there are a lot of interests in Independent genre and erotic genres. Just so you know that there are still a lot of diverse works to be done. 

LBH: I promise to look at it with an open mind. Thank you very much!  

 

All I wish after hearing his speech was for LBH to actually work with Director Lee Jun-ik. It better not be just a casual award show teasing talk for us. If it happens, It would be a dream come true and I would literally cry happy tears. He is one of my favorite Directors whose movies have left a lasting impressions on me for so long. Please, let this be happening. Byun Yo Han and Park Jung Min made it already. Now it’s LBH’s turn. LBH already sent his love call, I hope it gets reciprocated. 🙏 

 

Full Link: LBH’s speech starts at 1:53:00

https://youtu.be/jSS6LOlGDjM?si=szNF-kiGhcmsNAX1

[willenette]

10 best Korean action movies of all time

Korean action movies like Oldboy, A Dirty Carnival and I Saw the Devil are a treat to watch and one must give them a try.

 

Here is a list of the best Korean action films.

 

Korean action movies are more than just fighting sequences and looking cool. They are filled with amazing stories and emotions and force the audience to explore the moralities of life quite often. They are entertaining and also provide a thrill that keeps the viewers hooked till the end. Here is a list of the best Korean action films. 

 

 

4. I Saw the Devil

Director: Kim Jee Won 

Cast: Lee Byung Hun, Choi Min Shik

Release Date: August 12, 2010

 

In I Saw the Devil, the daughter of a retired police officer falls victim to a psychopath murderer. Her fiance is an underground agent and takes it upon himself to find the killer and get his revenge even if it means that he himself will have to become the villain. 

 

 

 

 

source : https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/10-best-korean-action-movies-of-all-time-1289757

[Annelyse Court]

Article published in the Italian newspaper Courrier Fiorentino on 26 March 2024

LeeByung-hun «Tornatore and Benigni, my favorite directors»

 

Film critic Caterina Liverani.

Absolute star in South Korea with 20 films to his credit and 5 successful television series, including Squid Game, will be the special guest of the 22nd edition of the Florence Korea Film Fest, the event that, until March 30- brings to Florence the best of South Korean cinema. The festival pays tribute to him with a Masterclass - on March 28 at 3 pm at the cinema La Compagnia - where he will tell his story. Also on the program is a selection of his most successful films, from the historical and generational portrait Once in a Summer to Masquerade the story of poor Gwanghae suddenly become king and forced to quickly learn the duties of the new rank. Lee Byung-hun made his debut in 2000 with the film Joint Security Area, which marked the history of Korean cinema: "Park Chanwook is a director with clear ideas and intentions, always ready to welcome creative ideas and new thoughts. Every evening, we met to discuss the scenes shot and to study those of the next day: he considered this precious and inseparable time from our acting work. '

 

To the romantic roles of his early career, as well as to black comedies, he never failed to add a touch of humour: "I like to make room for creativity. Improvise to animate the scenario, making sure to emphasize the meanings without distorting them. When I have a full take of the character, I have fun flying.”

 

Perhaps his most representative role is that of Sunwoo in A Bittersweet Life: 'He remained in the hearts of many. Having played a character who lives in such a distinct environment, required a great deal of identification. It also helped in life to better understand people, looking at them from different perspectives. When I think about who I am now, I realize how much the roles I have performed have influenced my personality.” 

If Korean cinema has taken on a different strength over the past twenty years, the credit goes to the cosmopolitan vision of new generation filmmakers: "Let’s also call it rebirth. The works of the young brought a fresh vision, playing an important role in driving this second wave.” There are «emotional assonances» between Korean culture and Italian culture: «Hospitality, respect, education. We are compatible, even in the details. From culinary traditions to film culture; what belongs to you resonates familiar.” There is an Italian director, in particular, who is carried in his heart: «A film that has deeply marked me, to the point of asking me if this story had been written about me, it is Cinema Paradiso by Giuseppe Tornatore. He influenced me at the time and in the years that followed. "Life is beautiful", both for the theatre and for the memorable staging of Roberto Benigni. Every time I see him, this loving and attentive father reminds me of mine.”

 

Italy-South Korea «Welcome, respect, education: we are compatible What belongs to you resonates family»

 

Author:Geneva Barbetti

 

Reverso Translation
Source: https://www.pressreader.com/italy/corriere-fiorentino/20240326/281784224093425

[Ephoenix]

March 27, 2024 

 

[LBH Instagram] LBH at the 22nd Florence Korea Film Festival today. 

 

 

😍 Pic: @yukki.px on IG 

 

From the Op who posted, LMJ was also present at the event today to support her hubby. March has really been a year of MJBH. Versace in LA last year to Florence, Italy this year. Workcation of Lee family, and ending perfectly with the celebration of Baby Joon Hoo’s bday! 🎉♥️ 

 

😍😍 Pic: @yukki.px on IG stories 

 

Spoiler

😘🤌

 

“Hun-ni and Hwa-ni” of Concrete Utopia! (Their nicknames given by the Perspective pictures’ producers) Finally their two-shot after such a long time!  

 

Spoiler

 

Masterclass with LBH will broadcast live tomorrow on YouTube. 

https://www.youtube.com/live/1GaVCKhgtmE?si=c1fxSeMMWHsVQk7p

[Ephoenix]

March 27, 2024 

 

[New TIFF Interview] The Rise of Korean Wave CInema with Lee Byung-hun I On Film 

 

Acclaimed actor Lee Byung-hun reflects on the success of Joint Security Area (JSA 2000); the innovative works of Park Chan-wook; and the growth of New Wave Korean Cinema in this exclusive interview with TIFF inside studio 9. 

 

 

LBH: JSA enjoyed tremendous success, breaking records at the time of its release. Not only has it achieved notable commercial success, but it continues to be a audience favorite, and it’s still a highly regarded work that remains a topic of discussion among people. Perhaps it’s a film that acts as a foundational point for globally acclaimed directors like Park Chan-wook and Bong Joon-ho, and some others to emerge, because after JSA was released, international film festivals began to express significant interest in Korean content. I believe that was the moment when global audiences started paying attention to the Korean film industry. 

 

LBH: Whether collaborating with Park Chan-wook, or simply watching his other works, I am consistently struck by the novelty of his ideas and the distinctiveness of his creativity. I can’t help but ponder whether this is evidence of his inherent genius. His constant drive to push creative boundaries and his unwavering commitment to trying new things really makes him stand out as an exemplary director. When I think about directors and actors from other countries, I often wonder where they get their creativity from as they get older, and how their storytelling gets deeper and more polished over time. I believe Park Chan-wook is one of the rare directors who shows those qualities. 

 

LBH: it was just one person flourishing, while everyone else just stayed the same, and that one person’s creativity evolved, while everyone else faded away, then Korean content would not be where it is today. Each person in the industry influences one another, and holds specialized positions in their fields. They are always coming up with new ideas and pushing each other to be more creative, which really helps everyone learn from each other and grow together. To me, this back-and-forth is what really pushes everyone in the Koran film industry forward, together. 

 

Link: https://youtu.be/KaUgyanWgxM?si=LZcTOvduIM_4nEp8

 

[LBH INSTAGRAM UPDATE]

 

I wonder if I should thank LMJ for this pic because it is perfect! Playing tourist with duomo at the background hehe. Lovely! 

Soft and dreamy in casual, and that hair, so pretty. I wonder if he’s just letting it grow for a change or for front man, or we have Sageuk as the next project to look forward to. Whatever it may be, I hope scissors don’t go near his hair for the time being because this look is >>>>>>>> 🥰😍 

 

 

 

[Annelyse Court]

Korean star Lee Byung-Hun is invited for the first time to the Florence Korean Film Festival. The Korean actor who stars in the film Concrete Utopia, the highest-grossing film of 2023, is internationally known for his Hollywood performances, such as in "The Magnificent Seven" with Denzel Washington.

 

 

 

At the Compagnie de Florence theater among the biggest Korean stars, the 22nd edition of Korea Film

There was the press conference, there will be Lee Byung-hun's Masterclass, one of the biggest

stars of Korean cinema who spoke with journalists to tell their stories and stories.

 

In the film Concreta Utopia, I imagine that the challenge was from an actor’s point of view, to transform his character from the moment he has to take the leadership to the moment he manages to obtain it.

As an actor, it is a challenge to arrive until there is this leadership there and conquer it. I think just like my acting job is a positive challenge, so I also enjoyed doing it. More than the difficulty, I found more pleasure, more interest in seeking this leadership. Trying to represent the change of a character at the human level when a person is put in a very dramatic situation is something that represents the whole film.

All the characters in the film have this path and especially the character I played, the character

of Young Tak, the main character who represents precisely this change.

In fact, I had a lot of fun and found it very interesting.

 

Having worked for Korean cinema and Hollywood cinema, have you ever thought about changing the way you play when dealing with Western cinema?

Especially when I talk about the first two or three works what I did in Hollywood is actually a reasoning, a reflection that I made the conclusion is that yes, there may be a difference in culture, there may be a difference in expression but in the end if I express, I act with my own emotions in an honest and fair way, true at the moment. In the end, being a universal thing, I am convinced that it goes through all borders, across all cultures.
Some delicious pasta! But if I were to participate in a film produced in Italy, if I must say that the pasta is good, I wonder if it is more effective if I do it this way or if instead I do it like the Korean actor, Byeong-heon. 

I love it when he speaks with his hands! LOL

 

 

 

[Ephoenix]

March 28, 2024 

 

[ENG TRANS] Masterclass with Actor Lee Byung Hun 

 

Pic: @yukki.px on IG 

 

Guys, first of all, I just want to point it out that the translations I’ve collected here are all for the answers LBH gave at the masterclass special program. Since, there was no way for me to understand the questions being asked in Italian, there are few times where I assumed what’s being asked based on his answers. So, please bear with me as there might be inaccuracies. 

 

Before they began with the masterclass program, LBH was presented with honorary citizenship of Florence, Italy. The award is called “Chiavi della Citta” award, which is translated as “The Key of the City.”, and is given to him as an acknowledgement for his achievements and contribution to the film industry as one of South Korea’s leading actors.

After two accidental droppings of what looked like a medallion, handing out the certificate, and some pics, it finally started. LBH must have been super nervous at the beginning but he handled it like a master till the end.

 

Since they began right away with the questions, LBH insisted he wanted to first convey his greetings to the audiences and introduce himself. (Our Humble gentleman!)

 

LBH: First of all, I am very honored to be part of this special program in Florence, my favorite city in Italy. This is my 2nd time receiving an honorary citizenship actually. First was a long time ago, when I was filming a drama called ‘All In’ in Jeju island. I was wondering about the reason and it’s benefits, and was also wondering whether it will be helpful for me to get the discounts for the tickets later or something. (In Florence)  I feel honored to have received this honor itself, and I feel very happy. We’ve had a close relationship with Florence film festivals for more than a decade, but I haven’t been able to attend due to the scheduling conflicts. It feels refreshing now that I am finally able to come, and I am very happy to be here. 

 

To answer your first question regarding Korean cinema in the 70s, I’d say it was not different from the sight of theater we saw in the movie, ‘Cinema Paradiso.’ These days, when you enter inside the theater, you smell all sorts of popcorns and butter, but at that time, it has a distinct smell that was a mixture of grilled squid, cigarettes, unpainted concrete walls, and children’s urine. My first experience going to the theater was when I was 6. At that time, all the elementary school students didn’t like going to the restroom while the movie was running. Since, the theater hall is sloped like a ladder, all the urine of children would stream down and collect at the front, even if they’d go to the back and do it. Personally, the smell was not weird like how you guys would perceive it to be. Perhaps the idea of theater at that time and the thrill of being there was different, so that whenever I felt the gush of smell as I went in, my heart used to beat with excitement.

 

My father was very much a ‘Hollywood kid’. He’d know each and everything about the movies from Directors, actors, stories and such from that era. He used to sit this 6 year old on his lap who knew nothing of that world and explain everything to him. On the days of no theater, he’d explain all the soap operas and b/w movies that aired on the tv during weekends, as we sit together and watch. It is those moments with my father that is engraved in my memory. 

 

Q-//PCW- Breaking through the industry with JSA.

LBH: I began my career with tv dramas, and ventured into movies. All 4 movies that I was part of didn’t do well. At that time, there was this superstition in the industry that if you fail to succeed 3 times, your career as an actor is over. However, I got the chance to do even the 5th one, and finally for the 6th one, I landed with JSA. The fact that I even got the chance to be an actor for 4-5 times itself was very interesting memory that I remember. I was serving in the military and was about to be discharged when I got the scenario from Dir. PCW. I’m not sure if it’s because I myself was in the military but, I remember reading the scenario very enthusiastically. After the movie became a hit, I received an award, and my first words were, ‘This is your box office actor, Lee Byung-hun.’ At that time, it was something I said with the rebellious heart towards people in the industry who were too concerned about audience numbers, but I remember it was passed off as a joke. To me, JSA is a very special project where I got to meet genius director like PCW. It is one of my favorite movie, and it has remained as a heavy presence in my filmography. 

 

Q: KJW- A Bittersweet life 

LBH: With Dir. KJW, even from my own personal point-of-view, I think we collaborated a lot, but there is not a single project with him where it was not difficult. (Slightly smiling) He is someone who has the talent of extracting all the energy out of an actor. From physical to mental energy, where after the movie was done, you can’t help but feel the need to take a break for a while. Among them, I think the most difficult one was of course ‘A Bittersweet Life.’ After all night filming, when I’d go and shower in the morning, I’d notice an actual cuts and wounds that I sustained during filming after all the make up washes off. At that time, I remember wondering, “What am I even doing here?”while staring in front of the mirror. Of course when I think about the outcome of his work, I don’t think there’s any work with him where I felt unsatisfied. I think we are very compatible together. 

 

Q: I Saw the Devil— I think he mentioned something about the filming taking a mental toll on both him and the director, but I didn’t quite grasp it. Maybe I’ll understand later if I pay better attention.  

Q: Inside Men— talks about preparation of making Ahn Sang goo, from his appearances to his traits, improvisations of the scenario to make it lighter since the subject was heavy and such. 

Q: Masquerade— It apparently was the movie he turned down many times before he went to the US to film GI Joe 2. My God!! He mentioned that the director even went to the US to persuade him. He said the more they tried, the more he felt like he shouldn’t do it.  He mentioned the reason being his own ideology of wanting to get to the skin of his character, and he felt extreme pressure because he had to portray two distinct characters. Since Gwanghae existed in history, his traits, habits, personality etc were readily available for study, but Ha-seon was a complete fictional character. He mentioned that the back-and-forth of dropping and getting on the emotions of both Gwanghae and Ha-seon at the same time was very challenging for him.

 

Q: Most difficult movies/experiences. 

Physically— Actually all Kim Jee Woon movies were the most difficult ones. 

Mentally— the movie where he was not able to grasp his character and the movie itself, and still haven’t till this day is, ‘I come with the rain.’ He said he asked the director what his intentions and messages were during the premiere, but the director said he himself was not sure.  

Hollywood— Acting in English in general. 

 

Q: If he has any plans to appear in an Italian movie. 

LBH: Are you perhaps proposing me a casting offer right now?  I think I could do a good job if given the role of a Korean who does not know Italian culture. To act as a character who’s a native Italian is hard as I have to learn so much, from the gestures to the expressions with the whole body like, *Italian accent* ‘Spaghetti!!’, ‘Delicious!!’ 😂

 

Reading Dongseok’s lines… his face😍 

 

Later, there was this corner with the audience where a fan requested LBH to reenact Dong-seok’s lines from ‘Our Blues’, where he was recording names of items for his general store. He said that it was the first time he’s done it after finishing the drama. He also chose ‘Cinema Paradiso’ and ‘Life is Beautiful’ as his most favorite films, and the connection he felt with his father as he watched those films. Some more mentions about Squid game 2, and request to look forward to S2. It’s influence on global audience and how people recognize him as Front man than his other acclaimed works, his disappointment etc. 

 

To end the fabulous event, LBH had planned a quiz section, where audience had to answer questions regarding his work, and the winners would get autographed items, his books handed to them by the man himself. The hype when there was a question regarding Mr. Sunshine was insane. I hope after this event, he took notes to appear on more works of OTTs now. Hehe.

Lastly, it was a masterclass event with Master LBH, who smoothly turned the program into a mini fan meeting. 😆/// Grazie!! 😁🤌

 

@Annelyse CourtThank you so much for the translations, Anne! It was indeed adorable watching him trying his ways around the language and gestures. It is such a meme worthy. I shall have this for all the fun reasons we may need it in the future.

 

LBH: They do this a lot here in Italy. 😂🤌

[willenette]

17 hours ago, Annelyse Court said:

At the Compagnie de Florence theater among the biggest Korean stars, the 22nd edition of Korea Film

There was the press conference, there will be Lee Byung-hun's Masterclass, one of the biggest

stars of Korean cinema who spoke with journalists to tell their stories and stories.

 

In the film Concreta Utopia, I imagine that the challenge was from an actor’s point of view, to transform his character from the moment he has to take the leadership to the moment he manages to obtain it.

As an actor, it is a challenge to arrive until there is this leadership there and conquer it. I think just like my acting job is a positive challenge, so I also enjoyed doing it. More than the difficulty, I found more pleasure, more interest in seeking this leadership. Trying to represent the change of a character at the human level when a person is put in a very dramatic situation is something that represents the whole film.

All the characters in the film have this path and especially the character I played, the character

of Young Tak, the main character who represents precisely this change.

In fact, I had a lot of fun and found it very interesting.

 

Having worked for Korean cinema and Hollywood cinema, have you ever thought about changing the way you play when dealing with Western cinema?

Especially when I talk about the first two or three works what I did in Hollywood is actually a reasoning, a reflection that I made the conclusion is that yes, there may be a difference in culture, there may be a difference in expression but in the end if I express, I act with my own emotions in an honest and fair way, true at the moment. In the end, being a universal thing, I am convinced that it goes through all borders, across all cultures.
Some delicious pasta! But if I were to participate in a film produced in Italy, if I must say that the pasta is good, I wonder if it is more effective if I do it this way or if instead I do it like the Korean actor, Byeong-heon. 

I love it when he speaks with his hands! LOL

 

@Annelyse Court  thanks for sharing this. Some men talk with their hands. Men frequently employ subtle hand gestures to deliver an intended message. And true, that's what I usually noticed in him when he talks. 

[Annelyse Court]

Photo: anaida angelescu insta

 

Thank you very much Ephoenix

for this translation  

I enjoy discovering all the lyrics of LBH I was so frustrated, when I watched online the masterclass, to be able to understand only a few snippets of the conversation.  My heart tightens every time he talks about Cinema Paradiso and his father (I too had the pleasure of seeing him with my parents at the cinema when he came out in the 80s and I keep a precious memory of it.)
The atmosphere at this event seemed really amazing and I hope Lee Byung-hun will keep a warm memory of her trip to Italy. In any case his fans are not ready to forget his presence, I hope to have the chance to live such a meeting one day.