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| ▲ South Korean actor Shin Hyun-joon poses with a life size cardboard cutout of late veteran actress Kim Soo-mi at the press conference for film "Thunderstruck Cop," in which they co-starred, in Seoul on Jan. 13, 2025. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap) |
SEOUL, Jan. 14 (Yonhap) -- "Seeing the poster of me with 'Mom' (Kim Soo-mi) at the theater overwhelmed me. She had said, 'Let's go on shows and promote the movie before its release,'" said actor Shin Hyun-joon.
He tearfully recalled his memories with the late veteran actress during a press conference after the premiere of the film "Thunderstruck Cop," held at CGV Yongsan I’Park Mall on Monday.
Directed by Kim Young-jun, the comedy movie depicts the life and adventures of Min Hyun-jun, a police officer who gains superpowers after being struck by lightning. The film showcases Kim Soo-mi's trademark earthy humor and her comedic chemistry with Shin Hyun-joon in sharp, witty exchanges.
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| ▲ This still photo of South Korean film "Thunderstruck Cop," provided by JNC Media Group, shows its lead actor Shin Hyun-joon (R) and late veteran actress Kim Soo-mi. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap) |
Kim Soo-mi and Shin Hyun-joon, who co-starred in Barefoot Gi-bong (2006), have maintained a close relationship akin to that of a real mother and son. Throughout the press conference, Shin referred to Kim Soo-mi as "Mom" or "Mother," frequently breaking into tears when discussing her.
He described Thunderstruck Cop as "a final gift" from the late actress.
During her lifetime, Kim Soo-mi often expressed her desire to create films like Barefoot Gi-bong—stories that bring joy to both the cast and the audience while emphasizing family bonds. Inspired by this, director Kim Young-jun wrote a family-comedy script with both actors in mind, resulting in Thunderstruck Cop.
Shin fondly recalled how Kim Soo-mi cared for the cast and crew during the shoot: "She always brought delicious side dishes from Seoul. We’d gather around, eating the heartfelt meals she prepared and discussing the project. Thanks to her, the filming felt warm and full of love."
Director Kim echoed these sentiments, sharing that "the set was always filled with laughter," and calling the film "one of the most significant works of my career."
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| ▲ This still photo of South Korean film "Thunderstruck Cop," provided by JNC Media Group, shows its lead actor Shin Hyun-joon (R) and late veteran actress Kim Soo-mi. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap) |
Originally envisioned as a series, the film was to expand on the concept of individuals gaining powers after being struck by lightning, forming a superhero team called the "Thunder Avengers." Kim Soo-mi’s character was set to play a key role in this ensemble, which is why Thunderstruck Cop concludes with her character being struck by lightning.
Shin revealed, "We debated whether to keep that final scene, but ultimately, the entire crew agreed not to alter any of her appearances in the film."
He concluded with a heartfelt plea: "I hope viewers can laugh comfortably and feel the warmth of family while watching. And please, remember our mother."
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