Director Jang Hang-jun shared his first impression of Park Ji-hoon.
On the 19th, at CGV Yongsan I'Park Mall in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, a production briefing was held for the film "The Man Who Lives with the King." Director Jang Hang-jun attended the production briefing along with actors Yoo Hae-jin, Park Ji-hoon, Yoo Ji-tae and Jeon Mi-do to discuss the film.
The film "The Man Who Lives with the King" is set in 1457 at Cheongnyeongpo and tells the story of a village headman who volunteered for exile to revive the village and the young dethroned king who was exiled; it is the first Korean film to focus on the hidden story of Danjong. This project features a large cast of actors who have recently led Korean films and dramas, including Yoo Hae-jin, Park Ji-hoon, Yoo Ji-tae, Jeon Mi-do, Kim Min, Park Ji-hwan, Lee Joon-hyuk and Ahn Jae-hong.
Director Jang Hang-jun expressed trust in Yoo Hae-jin about the casting, saying, "When the role of Eom Heung-do first existed, not only I but the producers said only one person came to mind," He said, "Yoo Hae-jin is a natural figure who shows a humane side, and he brings depth to the work. He has both qualities, so he was the first important person for us."
Director Jang continued, "For the role of Danjong we cast Park Ji-hoon, but actually I did not know Park Ji-hoon well. Then someone told me to 'watch Weak Hero.' When I watched Yeon Si-eun, I thought, 'That's Danjong.' He was not weak; there was a good look in his eyes. At that time he appeared very overweight, so it was strange," he said, drawing laughter.
He added, "On set, I felt the two trusted each other."
Meanwhile, the film "The Man Who Lives with the King" is scheduled to be released on Feb. 4, 2026.
[Photo] Reporter Lee Dae-seon
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