Director Hwang Jun-hyuk Explores a Unique Narrative Landscape in a Fusion of Western Genre and Korean History

Courtesy of Netflix

In an unprecedented fusion of genres, Netflix’s latest Korean original series, "Song of the Bandits," brings together the western genre and Korean history. Director Hwang Jun-hyuk describes it as "a new kind of catharsis," promising a historical drama that intertwines Western-style action with an Asian hero, delivering a unique viewing experience.

Set in the 1920s amidst Japanese imperialism, the action-packed series follows a group of Korean bandits led by their charismatic leader, Lee Yoon (Kim Nam-gil). Fueled by their fight against Japanese colonial rule, they become lawless bandits, risking everything to protect their land and loved ones.

Director Hwang, reuniting with scriptwriter Han Jung-hoo since their collaboration on the 2017 crime action series "Bad Guys 2," emphasized the gravity of the historical period portrayed in the series. He noted that while the series offers the expected Western genre action, it also carries the sentiment and pain of losing one's homeland, reflecting the bitter history of the time.

Kim Nam-gil, portraying a former slave turned bandit leader haunted by his past, expressed his intrigue in joining the series due to its experimental genre. He highlighted the complexity of the narrative, rooted in the pain of history, and emphasized that this series goes beyond traditional Westerns, focusing on characters passionately defending their lives and loved ones.

Singer and actress Seohyun, playing a character balancing dual identities, discussed the deep responsibility she felt in embodying a role tied to Korea's fight for independence. She expressed her dedication to portraying the emotional depth of the era, laden with layers of pain, underscoring the series' commitment to a nuanced portrayal of historical struggles.

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Blue YIM, yimyoungseo1010@naver.com