After retiring from the entertainment industry, former FT Island member Song Seung-hyun has left Korea.
The production team of the occult horror film 'Black Spirit' (director Kim Hyun-joon) released a Q&A interview with Song Seung-hyun, who plays the role of Hyun-woo, on the 29th.
Song Seung-hyun, who had not been able to meet in public since his retirement, actively engaged in response to the public's intense interest, leading to an in-depth interview. Song Seung-hyun expressed gratitude towards the audience who continue to show interest and conveyed a sincere message of support for 'Black Spirit', his retirement work, reflecting on having truly done his best in all aspects.
Song Seung-hyun got married to his longtime girlfriend in June last year and left Korea after retiring from the entertainment industry. He has stated, "After much contemplation, I plan to leave the entertainment industry and possibly leave Korea to live a new life."
Below is the full text of Song Seung-hyun's written interview.
Q. The film 'Black Spirit' is set to be released. What are your thoughts on the release?
I know it has taken quite some time to reach the release. I want to thank everyone at the production company, the director, and all the staff and actors for their hard work in preparing for the release.
Personally, I am extremely looking forward to it in New York. I apologize to the director and the actors for not being able to participate in the preview and film festival once again.
Q. The image transformation you showed in 'Black Spirit' was truly intense. What were your feelings when you first received the script? If there was a reason for deciding to take on the role of Hyun-woo, please share.
'Black Spirit' was particularly a project I really wanted to work on, despite having received many scripts and gone through auditions as an actor. I remember showing an exaggerated performance during the audition and meetings because it was a role I had never played before, a villain that left a strong impression, which drew me in even more.
Q. The role of Hyun-woo is representative of a bad boyfriend who engages in dating violence. I assume you must have had many struggles regarding this character. Was there anything difficult or concerning during your performance?
Since he is the complete opposite of my usual character, I had a lot of worries and put in a lot of effort. I had to express evil in a way that seemed natural, ensuring that the character would not be likable and could come across as somewhat cheap. It was indeed harder than I had anticipated on set, but the director helped bring out my performance and believed in me, which was really helpful.
Q. Many people were quite saddened by the news of your retirement. What would you like to say to your fans and the public? How do you feel after your retirement?
As a person, I wanted to create an opportunity to mature and grow healthier in body and mind. I am filling my everyday life with a new challenge in New York along with my marriage.
At that time, I personally posted on Instagram that I wanted to set aside my life in the entertainment industry and move to New York for a new life challenge, and I received more attention than I had expected. I didn't think I was that famous and assumed it would pass quietly (laughs). Many people who didn't know me asked, "Who is this person to retire? Is he not a copy of actor Song Seung-heon?" Reflecting on that, I remember receiving many delightful and amusing responses, but there were also many fans who provided encouragement, support, and concern.
Q. Many people are curious about your everyday life these days. Could you share what a typical day looks like?
I learned various businesses in New York for a year. Now, based on those experiences, I am preparing to run my own restaurant. If the 'Black Spirit' team comes to New York, I will make sure everyone can enjoy it for free (laughs).
Q. How do you think the fellow actors and director will remember you? Are there any memorable episodes from the set?
Looking back, it was a very happy and grateful time. Even now, a part of my heart feels pain and guilt. Everyone worked hard, and I enjoyed filming together. Because there were parts that needed to be done quickly within a short time, there was a lot of pressure, but I believe that everyone worked well together and helped each other, which allowed this project to be safely released.
A memorable cut was a scene where I was dragging a suitcase over a cliff and throwing it down, and it rained a lot. The memory of struggling to drag it while it was very heavy is still vivid.
Q. Is there a scene you worked particularly hard on or one that stands out?
There was a scene where I had to silently gasp in shock when discovering a wet suitcase in the house. That was quite challenging. I kept wanting to scream, and I have a deep memory of apologizing to the staff on set.
Q. As 'Black Spirit' is approaching its release, interest in you is heating up. Could you please share your thoughts on this interest?
It may not be that hot… (laughs), but I appreciate the kind words. It seems that viewers remember the scenes with Hyun-woo because they are impactful. However, I believe 'Black Spirit' is a film where the relationships of each character are important. Not only Hyun-woo's story but also the stories of other actors will provide overwhelming fear and new enjoyment if watched closely.
Q. Finally, could you say a few words to the audience who will meet 'Black Spirit'?
'Black Spirit' is a project that was prepared with great effort from auditions to filming. I hope that not only 'Black Spirit' but also many Korean horror films are loved. I hear Korea is very hot. I wish everyone enjoys watching 'Black Spirit' while cooling off in the heat.
The occult horror 'Black Spirit', where Anuat (played by Anupam Tripathi) who hides a terrible past and secret meets Sua (played by Lim Do-hwa) who will inevitably die upon turning 25, begins on a full moon night, facing a chilling fate, is currently being screened with great acclaim.
[Photo provided by J&Company Media Group Co., Ltd.]
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