▲ Kim Sung-han, director of Korean disaster film "Hijacking," appears on this photo provided by Kidari Studio and Sony Pictures. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE)(Yonhap)

 

SEOUL, June 19 (Yonhap) -- The film 'Hijacking,' set to be released on the 21st, is based on the 1971 incident where a Korean Air domestic flight was hijacked over Hongcheon, Gangwon Province, almost ending up in North Korea. Few people are aware of this event, known as the Korean Air hijacking attempt.

 

Director Kim Sung-han (46) first heard about this incident from screenwriter Kim Kyung-chan during a conversation in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Kim, who had worked with the screenwriter on the film '1987' (2017) as an assistant director, felt that this story could be transformed into a compelling movie.

 

"It was like something straight out of a film. Right then and there, I suggested, 'Let's quickly write the script,'" Kim recalled during an interview at a café in Samcheong-dong, Seoul.

 

▲ This still photo of Korean disaster film "Hijacking," provided by Kidari Studio and Sony Pictures, shows the film's lead actor Ha Jung-woo (C). (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE)(Yonhap)

 

The hijacking attempt could have resulted in a large-scale disaster due to the hijacker’s reckless actions. However, the passengers were all rescued thanks to the sacrifice of trainee pilot Jeon Myung-se, who was on board. "He was a true hero," Kim said, reflecting on Jeon’s courageous act and the motivations behind it.

 

"In interviews with other heroes, they often say they just felt they had to act in the moment. That seems to be the right answer," Kim added.

 

In 'Hijacking,' Jeon Myung-se’s character is represented by the co-pilot Tae-in, played by Ha Jung-woo. The film showcases Tae-in, the captain Gyu-sik (Sung Dong-il), and flight attendant Ok-soon (Chae Soo-bin) as they navigate extreme danger without abandoning their duties, delivering a moving narrative.

 

Kim had previously worked with Ha Jung-woo on '1987' and 'Ashfall' (2019). Regarding casting Ha in 'Hijacking,' he said, "Around the end of shooting 'Ashfall,' Ha said he wanted to work together again. He showed a lot of interest from the preparation stages of this film."

 

Describing Ha as "a very warm-hearted person," Kim praised his acting, saying, "I have always enjoyed Ha’s straightforward acting. Editing his scenes was a pleasure this time as well."

 

The casting of Yeo Jin-goo as the hijacker Yong-dae was a carefully considered decision. Known for his bright and kind image, Yeo takes on a different role in this film. Kim explained, "I didn't want to depict Yong-dae as simply a villain. The story reflects our painful past beyond just good and evil."

 

▲ This still photo, provided by Kidari Studio and Sony Pictures, show Korean actor Yeo Jin-goo in film "Hijacking." (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE)(Yonhap)

 

'Hijacking' marks Kim’s directorial debut, though he has served as an assistant director on significant projects such as 'Asura' (2016). He participated in his first film project, 'Springtime' (2004), directed by Ryu Jang-ha, who passed away in 2019. "Director Ryu had a significant influence on me. He was the kind of person who would seriously ask for my opinion even when I was just an assistant," Kim said, becoming emotional.

 

When asked about his future projects, Kim mentioned, "I am drawn to stories of people at the brink of life, like in 'Hijacking.' Exploring why they reached that point and the choices they make is something I aim to continue delving into."

 

▲ Cast members of "Hijacking" pose for photos in a cinema in Seoul on May 22, 2024. (Yonhap)

 

 

 

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