Depicts the Journey of a North Korean Defector and the Pursuit by State Security

Courtesy of Megabox Plus M

"Escape," a new film focusing on the human desire for freedom, follows the story of Gyu-nam, a North Korean soldier who defects to South Korea in search of a better future. The film, starring Lee Je-hoon as Gyu-nam and Koo Kyo-hwan as his pursuer, Major Hyun-sang of North Korea's Ministry of State Security, is set to be released on July 3.

The narrative revolves around Gyu-nam, a soldier nearing the end of his 10-year service, who is confronted with the grim prospect of a future working on a farm or in a mine. To escape this fate, he devises a plan to defect to South Korea. Hyun-sang, assigned to capture Gyu-nam, is relentless in his pursuit, adding to the tension of the film.

Director Lee Jong-pil explained that "Escape" delves into the universal human instinct to shape one’s own destiny. Inspired by a news story about South African youths attempting to stow away on an airplane, and a personal anecdote from a friend distressed by their job, Lee aimed to capture the emotions that drive people to seek freedom.
 

▲ "Escape," starring Lee Je-hoon / Courtesy of Megabox Plus M

"One day, I came across an article about South African youths who attempted to smuggle themselves into Europe by clinging to the wheels of a departing airplane after sneaking onto the runway. Also, a friend of mine, who was working at a company, called me in tears, expressing his desire to quit his job. I thought their emotions were similar to what Gyu-nam was feeling. Through 'Escape,' I wanted to tell a universal story about humans," said Lee during a press conference held in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, on Monday.

The film's release coincides with a period of heightened tensions between North and South Korea, such as the recent incident where North Korea reportedly sent balloons carrying garbage into South Korea. However, Lee stated that this timing was coincidental.

"'Escape' finished (production) around the middle or latter half of last year," said Lee.

Lee emphasized that "Escape" does not focus on ideological narratives concerning inter-Korean relations but rather aims to entertain while telling a broader human story. 

▲ "Escape" starring Koo Kyo-hwan / Courtesy of Megabox Plus M"The film, rather than talking of ideology, talks about something else -- and I wanted to create an entertaining movie, most of all," he said.

While Gyu-nam’s harrowing escape is central to the film, Hyun-sang’s character stands out due to his complex nature. Despite being a high-ranking officer dedicated to his mission, he struggles with his own ambitions and desires.

To add depth to Hyun-sang's character, Lee included a special appearance by Song Kang, known for his roles in popular Netflix series like "Sweet Home" and "Love Alarm." Lee described Song’s role as a “Tinkerbell” figure that exposes Hyun-sang’s suppressed desires.

"(Song Kang) serves as a Tinkerbell that reveals Hyun-sang's repressed desire. I thought it should conventionally be a woman, but I felt it wouldn't be interesting. (Through Song Kang's appearance), I hoped for something short but impactful," said Lee.

"Escape" will be released in local theaters on July 3.

Sayart

Kang In sig, insig6622@naver.com