Kim Yun-seok Reflects on Portraying Admiral Yi in Director Kim Han-min's Trilogy Conclusion

Courtesy of LOTTE ENTERTAINMENT

Korean actor Kim Yun-seok shared insights on his role as Admiral Yi Sun-sin in the latest installment of director Kim Han-min's trilogy, titled "Noryang," during an interview on the film's opening day.

"Noryang" marks the conclusion of the trilogy, focusing on the historical figure Admiral Yi Sun-sin, a revered military strategist from the Joseon Dynasty known for his defense against Japanese invasion. 

▲ Courtesy of LOTTE ENTERTAINMENTKim Yun-seok, who plays Admiral Yi in "Noryang," expressed the uniqueness of the film, emphasizing its portrayal of Yi's death—a pivotal event that had been both known and anticipated by the audience.

The trilogy's previous films featured Choi Min-sik in "The Admiral: Roaring Currents" and Park Hae-il in "Hansan: Rising Dragon." Taking on the role after acclaimed performances by Choi and Park presented pressure, but Kim Yun-seok welcomed the opportunity to bring a new perspective to the depiction of Admiral Yi.

Director Kim Han-min's thorough preparation and dedication to the trilogy project convinced Kim Yun-seok to take on the role, as the actor was impressed by the director's in-depth understanding of Admiral Yi's character and historical context.

Admiral Yi's death, a significant moment in the Battle of Noryang, presented an honor and a challenge for Kim Yun-seok. Reflecting on the critical scene, the actor considered Admiral Yi's likely emotions during the battle and the necessity for him to suppress emotions to avoid hindering the ongoing conflict.

Filming "Noryang" provided Kim Yun-seok with insights into Admiral Yi's internal conflicts and personal struggles, particularly during the period between the Battle of Myeongnyang and the Battle of Noryang. The actor highlighted Admiral Yi's resilience during this challenging time, marked by the loss of trusted generals, the passing of his mother, and physical suffering.

Despite facing physical challenges on set, including fatigue and nosebleeds due to the weight of the armor worn, Kim Yun-seok deemed the experience worthwhile. He emphasized the strength of films and theaters, expressing the exhilaration of watching the final cut of "Noryang" with an audience during a pre-screening.

Kim Yun-seok hopes that "Noryang" will contribute to the positive streak for domestic films in theaters and resonate with audiences as they engage with the story of Admiral Yi Sun-sin.

Sayart

Sayart, sayart2022@gmail.com