'First Japanese Film to Reach 10 Million by a Korean Director' Director Lee Sang-il, 'Memorable Experience Working on Pachinko 2'

Director Lee Sang-il of 〈KOKUHO〉 reflected on his past experiences working with Korean actors.

The film 〈KOKUHO〉 is set to be released on the 19th, and immediately after being unveiled to domestic reporters at a press screening at CGV Yongsan I-Park on the afternoon of the 13th, a press conference was held with Director Lee Sang-il in attendance. Director Lee Sang-il, a Korean resident in Japan, came to Korea for the release of 〈KOKUHO〉 in Korea.

The film 〈KOKUHO〉 tells the story of two men who had to surpass each other to reach the level of national treasure, and it not only surpassed 10 million viewers in Japan but also set records as the second highest-grossing live-action film in Japan and the first Japanese film to reach 10 million by a Korean director.

At the press conference, when asked about the most impressive Korean content he has seen recently, Director Lee Sang-il said, "I worked with cinematographer Hong Kyung-pyo on the film 〈The Moon of Wandering〉. So, I watched 〈Harbin〉 in theaters, which was shot by cinematographer Hong Kyung-pyo. From the first cut, I felt the power of the visuals and was deeply impressed."

Director Lee Sang-il also mentioned his past experiences working with Korean actors. He stated, "When directing 〈Pachinko 2〉, I met many Korean actors. Kim Min-ha and Lee Min-ho left a strong impression on me," adding, "I felt that Korean actors have a very firm mindset, and their acting theory is solid and well-founded. Therefore, communication went smoothly."

He shared his honest feelings about working with actress Youn Yuh-jung, saying, "At first, I was very scared of actress Youn Yuh-jung. However, as we worked together, we built a trusting relationship, and I was very happy," which brought laughter to the audience.

Director Lee Sang-il's new film 〈KOKUHO〉 will be released on November 19 (Wednesday).