Baek Byung-yeul is a journalist at The Korea Times focused on cultural content, including films and cultural events in South Korea. You can contact him at baekby@koreatimes.co.kr to share your insights.
'Harbin' captures Korea's resilience through time
Actor Hyun Bin, center, who plays independence fighter Ahn Jung-geun in the movie “Harbin,” speaks during a press conference for the upcoming film at a theater in Seoul, Wednesday. His co-stars, Jo Woo-jin (left) and Jeon Yeo-been, also portray independence fighters in the movie. Yonhap
By Baek Byung-yeul
Movie follows life, legacy of independence icon Ahn Jung-geun
"Harbin" is a film based on the life of Ahn Jung-geun (1879-1910), an independence activist who fought for Korea's freedom during Japan's 1910-45 colonial occupation. However, director Woo Min-ho emphasized that the political turmoil Korea is experiencing today is not significantly different from that of a century ago. He noted that viewers might find a sense of hope in the film, believing that the current challenges can be overcome, just as in the past.
"I hope this film provides comfort and strength to the audience," Woo said during a press conference in Seoul, Wednesday, answering a question about how he wanted audiences to interpret the film in light of the current political chaos in Korea, sparked by President Yoon Suk Yeol’s sudden and short-lived declaration of martial law on Dec. 3.
"Although we are living in a time of confusion, I hope people will realize that we will certainly overcome it and be proud eventually," he added.
"Harbin" depicts the dramatic assassination of Ito Hirobumi, Japan's first prime minister and the resident-general of Korea, by Ahn Jung-geun, a lieutenant general of the Korean resistance army, in Harbin, China, in 1909. Hyun Bin plays Ahn, while Japanese actor Lily Franky portrays Hirobumi.
Director Woo Min-ho breaks down in tears as he speaks about the hard work of Korean independence fighters in his film “Harbin” during a press conference for the film at a theater in Seoul, Wednesday. Yonhap
The director, visibly emotional, confessed that he felt both grateful and apologetic toward the many independence fighters he researched for the film.
"As a director, this is my first work dedicated to those who sacrificed for this country. I read Ahn's autobiography and materials about other independence fighters. General Ahn was only 30 at the time (when he assassinated the prime minister). Most were in their 20s and 30s. I wondered what drove such young people to dedicate themselves so completely. It made me feel very grateful and indebted," he said.
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Hyun, the actor, expressed his hope that the film would inspire courage and hope in many people.
“In our movie, General Ahn and his comrades took one step at a time with conviction, no matter what hardships they faced, and in the end, they created an outcome. So, I believe that there will be a better tomorrow if we gather our strength and take one step at a time,” Hyun said.
“Our movie poster for the overseas edition has the phrase, 'For a better tomorrow.' It's a very meaningful phrase for us right now. We hope that many people will feel encouraged and hopeful after watching our movie,” Hyun added.
Actor Hyun Bin plays independence fighter Ahn Jung-geun in the upcoming film, “Harbin.” Courtesy of CJ ENM
Hyun revealed that he initially declined the role due to Ahn's significant legacy and symbolism in Korean history. However, he changed his mind after the director's persistent requests, feeling a deep responsibility to portray such an iconic figure.
"When director Woo first proposed it, I refused because Ahn Jung-geun holds such a monumental position and is a symbol in our country. I thought it wasn't a role I could handle. But after several more calls from the director, I reread the script and suddenly thought, 'how many actors get the chance to portray such a remarkable figure?' It's a huge opportunity and honor," he explained.
The film, while dealing with a historical event well-known to Koreans, avoids forced emotional manipulation. Instead, it calmly portrays the resolute actions of the independence fighters, moving slowly but powerfully towards the conclusion.
"When filming this movie, I aimed for the audience to feel as though they were admiring a painting. I wanted to capture the sense of honor and dignity reflected in the faces of the independence fighters," the director said.
Actor Hyun Bin, left, and Jeon Yeo-been in the film, “Harbin” / Courtesy of CJ ENM
Aside from the renowned Ahn, other independence movement figures are fictionalized, inspired by real people, but with creative liberties added for the film. The actors, who filmed in Latvia, Mongolia, and Korea, expressed deep gratitude for the sacrifices made by the actual independence fighters a century ago.
Jeon Yeo-been, portraying Madam Gong, a composite character symbolizing the many women who participated in Korea's struggle for independence, reflected on how these historical figures paved the way for the freedom enjoyed today.
"This film allowed me to question what it means to have the heart to protect something. It also made me rethink the altruism of those who wanted to help others," she said.
Lee Dong-wook makes a guest appearance as Lee Chang-seop, another fictional independence fighter who has a different approach from Ahn Jung-geun, but shares the same ultimate goal of Korea's liberation. For Lee, the size of the role was less important than the chance to collaborate in the project.
"Being able to work with excellent actors and staff was a great fortune in my acting career. During filming, everyone worked hard and I'm glad those efforts are well captured in the movie," Lee said.
"Harbin" is set to hit theaters nationwide on Christmas Eve.