Kwak Yeon-soo is a digital editor at The Korea Times creating, editing and curating digital content for the newspaper’s website, mobile app and social media. She previously covered a diverse array of cultural, political and business topics.
Song Joong-ki and fellow cast of 'Hopeless' excited about Cannes invitation
A scene from the film, "Hopeless" / Courtesy of Plus M Entertainment
By Kwak Yeon-soo
By Kwak Yeon-soo
Actor Song Joong-ki and his fellow cast members said they are happy to be invited to the 76th Cannes Film Festival, which is screening their film, “Hopeless,” in the non-competitive Un Certain Regard section.
Un Certain Regard features noteworthy films and is considered the most prominent among the out-of-competition sections. Director Bong Joon-ho's “Mother” and director Na Hong-jin's “The Yellow Sea” were screened at Un Certain Regard section in 2009 and 2010, respectively.
Song, who will be attending the Cannes Film Festival for the first time, said he is honored to present his project on the global stage. He starred in the low-budget film for free.
“I am honored and proud to be invited to the Cannes. 'Hopeless' is a film that was made with pure passion and dedication of everyone involved. I'm excited to watch it with the international audience and I look forward to sharing our thoughts and feelings about the film,” Song said through the film's distributor Plus M Entertainment. This year's festival runs from May 16 to 27.
In “Hopeless,” Song plays the role of Chi-gun, an underboss of a crime group. The neo noir action thriller follows the story of Yeon-gyu (Hong Xa-bin) who wishes to escape the harsh realities of his life. He steps into the world of crime after meeting Chi-geon.
Hong thanked the crew for making the experience so special. The 26-year-old actor has left a strong impression by appearing in several short films like director Kim Kun-hwi's “On Leave” (2017) and director Ku Ji-yoon's “Save Me” (2019) as well as Tving series “Duty After School” (2023).
“I am grateful to be part of such a great film. I would like to thank all the crew members for their incredible work,” he said.
A poster for the film "Hopeless" / Courtesy of Plus M Entertainment
“Hopeless” is helmed by director Kim Chang-hoon, whose previous titles include short film “Dance with My Mother” (2012).
“Going to the Cannes Film Festival is something I always dreamed of. I can't wait to be there,” Kim said.
Kim Hyoung-seo, better known as K-pop singer BIBI, said she was dumbfounded by the Cannes invitation. She landed the role of Yeon-gyu's sister, Ha-yan, through an audition. The singer made her foray into acting with the horror flick, “Whispering Corridors 6: The Humming,” in 2021.
“Hopeless” will hit local theaters in the second half of this year.