'Train to Busan' takes Don Lee to Hollywood

The Korea Times

The Korea Times

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'Train to Busan' takes Don Lee to Hollywood

Posted : 2016-09-28 17:10

Updated : 2016-09-28 17:10

Don Lee in a scene from "Train to Busan"

By Ko Dong-hwan

Korean actor Don Lee ― from "Train to Busan" ― will likely soon star in Hollywood features.

Lee, also known as Ma Dong-seok in Korea, received casting offers from "major studios in Hollywood," according to Dong-A Ilbo, Wednesday.

"We think it is a good opportunity (for Lee)," said Daydream Entertainment, the actor's agency. "Any following process will be processed carefully."

Hollywood's interest in Lee, 45, largely stems from his role in Korea's first zombie blockbuster flick this year, which debuted in the Out of Competition category at the Cannes Film Festival in May. Following the screening, film studios including Fox, Sony and some in Europe tried to secure remake rights.

"Train to Busan" also had two sold-out screenings at the 20th Fantasia International Film Festival in Montreal in August, winning the Cheval Noir trophy for best feature.

The movie opened in Korean theaters in July and has sold almost 12 million tickets.

(From left) Lee Byung-hun from "The Magnificent Seven" (2016) and Bae Doo-na from "Cloud Atlas" (2012)

"It appears Lee will become the latest addition to Korean stars who debuted in Hollywood, such as Lee Byung-hun and Bae Doo-na," an official from the Korean cinema industry said, according to the report.

Lee, who moved to Korea from the U.S., where he worked as a health trainer, is known for his fluent English and machismo, which also may have appealed to Hollywood.

The actor has become popular in other Asian nations. In Taiwan, the movie opened early this month and beat Hollywood's "World War Z" in ticket sales, with over $9 million worth sold in 10 days, according to the report.

Lee debuted in Korea in 2005 and has appeared in movies, TV dramas and commercials.

aoshima11@ktimes.com