Director Na Hong-jin has opened up about the casting process for his latest film, "HOPE".

On the afternoon of July 6, Director Na attended the press screening and conference for "HOPE" at Megabox COEX in Samseong-dong, Seoul. During the event, he discussed the casting of the three leads: Hwang Jung-min, with whom he is collaborating for the second time following "The Wailing", and Zo In-sung and Jung Hoyeon, both of whom are working with him for the first time.

Regarding his second collaboration with Hwang Jung-min, Director Na shared, "About 7 to 8 years ago, I cast Hwang Jung-min for a different project, but it didn't move forward. At the time, I was preparing a dark film that would clearly be rated for adults, but during the screenwriting process, the direction shifted into what is now 'HOPE'."

He continued, "He did not rush me. In fact, he called me first to ask if it was okay for him to film another project. I apologized to him then. About 5 to 6 years later, when the script was finally completed, I reached out to him again, and thankfully, he readily accepted."

Hwang Jung-min plays Beom-seok, a police officer working at the Hopo Port substation. Director Na remarked, "I wrote the character of Beom-seok with Hwang Jung-min in mind from the very first draft. It was an inevitable and natural casting choice."

The casting of Zo In-sung was heavily influenced by recommendations from acquaintances. Director Na stated, "Whenever actors around me talked about their experiences working with Zo In-sung, they only had good things to say. Director Ryoo Seung-wan also praised him highly, and watching his work, I thought, 'There must be something special about him.' I gained confidence that I could do well if I worked with him. After actually working together, his focus, his attitude on set, and his various qualities as an actor were truly respectable. I am so grateful, and we remain close friends to this day."

Jung Hoyeon was recommended by Hwang Jung-min. Director Na explained, "Hwang Jung-min suggested that I should meet Jung Hoyeon and have a conversation. I didn't know why he said that, but after meeting her and talking for about two hours, it was so much fun."

He added, "She naturally possessed the qualities I was looking for in the character. Even though she is a busy actor, I actively persuaded her to join, and that is how we came to film together."

"HOPE" is Director Na Hong-jin's first new film in 10 years. It tells the story of Beom-seok, the head of the Hopo Port substation in the Demilitarized Zone, who hears reports from local youths about the appearance of a tiger. As the entire village goes on high alert, he encounters an unbelievable reality. The film is set to be released on July 15. 

(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)