Song Kang-ho's Simple Approach to Acting and Reflections on Korea's Cultural Impact

Courtesy of Hong Kong Asian Film Festival

Renowned actor Song Kang-ho shared insights into his approach to acting during a master class at Hong Kong Baptist University. He emphasized leading a monotonous lifestyle and keeping an empty mind as the keys to his longstanding success. Song, a Cannes-winning actor, is known for avoiding distractions like movies, including his own, to maintain focus and clarity.

Song Kang-ho's acting strategy includes staying quiet on set and distancing himself from noise or excessive direction. This approach has proven successful, earning him the Best Actor award at the 75th Cannes Film Festival for his role in "Broker" (2022). Song, with a career spanning nearly three decades, began as a stage actor and made his film debut in 1996 with "The Day a Pig fell into the Well." 

▲ Courtesy of Hong Kong Asian Film Festival
Reflecting on the success of Korean cultural content, Song credited Korea's dynamic and innovative social fabric, fostering an environment of constant improvement and creativity. He emphasized Korea's commitment to excellence and innovation, placing the nation amidst new waves of global cinema movements, akin to the Hong Kong New Wave.

Song recently visited Hong Kong to mark the selection of his latest film "Cobweb" as the opening film of the Hong Kong Asian Film Festival. He acknowledged his diverse roles in Korean cinema, working with acclaimed directors due to his versatility rather than relying on traditional notions of handsomeness.

Despite his international acclaim, Song downplayed any Hollywood ambitions, prioritizing the quality of the script and character when choosing roles. He praised Hong Kong as the city of dreams and expressed admiration for its golden age of cinema during the 1980s and 1990s.

His latest film "Cobweb" has garnered significant attention, with pre-sales to 187 countries and regions, including the U.S., France, and Thailand. The film is set for release in Hong Kong on October 26.

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