Yoochun: The work itself is the prize
by awcoconuts
The cast of Sea Fog has been out promoting the Bong Joon-ho-produced late-summer blockbuster, which opened in theaters this week. Although it’s been 11 years since his debut, Yoochun is the movie rookie of the bunch, and he sat down for an interview on what it was like to participate on a film for the first time and to work alongside seasoned movie vets.
In Sea Fog, Yoochun plays the youngest member of a ship’s crew; when he and the rest of his shipmates fail to catch a profitable number of fish, the captain decides to cut their losses by taking on human cargo—a group of Koreans living in China who wish to illegally immigrate back to the motherland. Yoochun’s character is a simple and naïve guy who falls in love with one of the Korean-Chinese stowaways (played by Han Ye-ri). He’ll fight to the end to protect her, but when the fog rolls in, he’ll be faced with the challenge of his life.
Although an idol (of group JYJ) and a frequent face in dramaland (Three Days, I Miss You, Rooftop Prince), he felt nervous when he arrived on set to film Sea Fog. “I’ve seen a lot of movies in my life, but I didn’t know that the screen was so huge. It felt fresh to me, and it was the first time I’d ever felt anything like that; in the beginning, it all felt very new. When I looked at Sea Fog in its entirety, the movie felt very daunting. When the feeling of being overwhelmed passed, I began to have many thoughts about the film. Even if I weren’t in the movie, I think I would have watched the film and felt the same emotions. I thought a lot about human nature and instinct, and how everyone lives by their instincts.”
When asked about working with his other esteemed cast members, which include Kim Yoon-seok (Hwayi, The Thieves), the actor said, “From this movie, you’ll learn that these people are labeled tremendous because they are tremendous.” He went on to say, “If I continue to do movies, I would love to work with these folks again. It was a joy and an honor. I was able to learn a lot and I felt a lot. Kim Yoon-seok sunbae-nim never once lost his concentration during the filming of Sea Fog. His concern for the part was relentless. Mentally and physically the project was draining, but the fact that [my castmates] were able to keep up their performances was amazing.”
“At first, the movie set was unfamiliar and I was nervous, but Kim Yoon-seok sunbae would say, ‘This is another way [to act in this scene], so think about it,’ and he would show me how the scene was supposed to feel. Because I knew he was there, I would doubt my own acting ability, but more important than that, I was thrilled sunbae-nim was actually watching my work. He watched over me and thought about our characters a lot, and was a tremendous help to me.”
Yoochun talked about preparing for his role as the unkempt young seafarer: “I deliberately gained some weight for the part. I thought about portraying him as a lean and buff crewman, but as the youngest member with a limited amount of experience at sea, I thought being a naïve, slightly chubbier guy would be more fitting, so I gained about 5 kgs for the role.”
“I didn’t even shave. Which I don’t normally like to do anyway,” he laughs. “I don’t like the term ‘flower boy.’ When people around me say, ‘If you don’t [appear a certain way], people will criticize you,’ I don’t understand. There are faces that fit certain situations, and along with that a darker complexion or shabbier attire. Do I always have to act with a tidy appearance? I don’t agree with that, and don’t think it’s necessary. If in a project, I’m playing someone who is facing death and I’m bleeding, what good is it if my face remains pristine? I don’t think that’s right.”
He ends the interview with his thoughts on the film: “With other works, I hoped to receive awards, but when it comes to Sea Fog, I don’t have any of those kinds of desires. I feel like the movie itself was a huge gift. I won’t be greedy; I just hope the movie has a decent opening.” He did his part to encourage viewers to watch the film, saying, “There is a scene with Moon Seung-geun where he is able to bring out some really difficult emotions. When I think back, I consider it an honor that I was able to watch those emotions directly at the scene, and I really hope audiences will get a chance to see it.”
The movie faces some stiff competition versus the two historical at-sea films currently in theaters, Roaring Currents (which is currently breaking all sorts of records and has already surpassed 10 million in ticket sales to become the highest grossing Korean-made movie of the year), and Pirates (holding steady in second place for now with its comedic bent), but with the positive buzz, there’s a good chance Sea Fog will gain momentum.
Via Hankook Economy
- Sea Fog to stir box office waters this week
- Three Days: Episode 1
- Yoochun as presidential bodyguard in Three Days
- Yoochun undergoes training for suspense thriller Three Days
- Three Days in danger of losing lead actor Yoochun
- Yoochun headlines action drama Three Days
- Yoochun joins Kim Yoon-seok at sea
- I Miss You: Episode 1
- Rooftop Prince: Episode 1
Tags: interviews, Micky Yoochun
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1 redfox
August 17, 2014 at 12:28 PM
very nice and thoughtful interview which reminds viewers that acting and making movies is a job, and a very demanding job emotionally and physically. sometimes it feels like people think making movies is just fun and games and then you get a fat paycheck too. but in fact there is a lot of stress too and it doesnt come easy. there are complicated decisions and choices, self-doubt. etc. thanks for reminding us Yoochun! keep working hard and learning from those who already feel steady and confident !
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kanz
August 17, 2014 at 3:13 PM
Agreed. Making movie was not easy at all, even if it's just for a few minutes documentary, nevermind big-budget commercial productions. It's also challenging, at least more challenging than average dramas.
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Rungirlrun
August 17, 2014 at 6:16 PM
While I do believe being an actor is certainly not an easy occupation, the work that they do does not justify what they make. The staff and production crew work just as hard and sometimes more and do not get even a scrap of what they make. I have lived and worked in LA for years and most of my friends are in the "industry", not just acting but also writers,singers etc. I have also worked in a couple of productions and sets. If not for worker's unions, we would be severely underpaid and overworked (more than what we do now) and I cannot imagine working in the same field in Korea.
My intention was not to undermine your opinion, but simply to enlighten you that actors are way way way better off than the nameless and faceless people who work with them
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Rachel
August 17, 2014 at 8:55 PM
Yes, but many of the big fat paychecks we hear actors receiving is pretty much limited to the big names, who, I admit, don't always deserve it. There are many struggling actors, talented and mediocre alike, struggling to catch their big break and make ends meet in the meantime.
But talent demands reward, and I think it's safe to say that there are some truly talented actors who deserve the remuneration they receive.
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Mama J
August 18, 2014 at 3:14 AM
I am not discounting the importance of anyone's work, but in this situation I know that I have never gone to see a movie because of the behind the scenes folks - I go for the story or because I like the actors.
Many times, it's those actors names tied to a project that get it made, and their work isn't limited to actually shooting the scenes; they also have what I understand are fairly grueling rounds of press as well. Additionally, what they earn isn't just for them; they in turn pay managers, agents, PR folk, stylists, etc, from their salary.
This would be at least a few of the reasons why the discrepancy is there, but I do agree that it shouldn't have to be SO vast.
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Aigoooo
August 18, 2014 at 8:33 AM
I always wondered what the standard agency cut is for a talent. Maybe 50/50 for actors and 70/30 for idols (since they also train them)?
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odango
August 18, 2014 at 8:11 PM
Not sure, as for idols contracts were revised (at least on paper) to be more fair for the artists after JYJ left SM. It would also be different for Yoochun, as their relationship with CJeS is unique. It is likely that the agency has a very beneficial rate for the acts they sign, as that would be the only way of attracting such big names including Choi Min Sik etc.
Rungirlrun
August 24, 2014 at 3:12 AM
I can see your point there.
I don't know how they do it in SK, but generally, in LA, the PR staff,stylists, makeup artists etc are paid by the production company(e.g. Dreamworks, Paramount etc) and does not come out of the actor's salary unless they have their own team or "entourage". Truthfully, this is mostly evident in the music side of things (think Mariah Carey, Justin Bieber) or the really demanding celebrities.
Working in the biz and working at some of the snootiest restaurants on the side for extra cash, I have so many stories, good and bad, about a lot of celebrities! :)
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2 BAF2
August 17, 2014 at 12:55 PM
Knowing of Park Yoochun's work ethic, I'm not surprised at the comments he's made on how he prepared for this film. As with the other members of JYJ, when they engage with the casts of the projects they work on, they learn from them, they build camaraderie, and they absorb the atmosphere that surrounds them. No surprise here, that YC show his growth and maturity. Chunnie, I'm glad you got the opportunity to work on this film. Whatever success it achieves, you can say you had a part in it. Look forward to the future and all it has in store for you.
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3 chi
August 17, 2014 at 1:26 PM
Nice interview, and he is right. It's distracting when every character, no matter how rich or poor or whatever, is nicely groomed and plastered with BB-Cream.
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4 jensredshoes
August 17, 2014 at 2:39 PM
I don't think of him as an idol. He seems so sincere about what he does wether singing or acting. I think he can be successful long after being part of his group even when he's much older. I would love to see this film -the story is compelling. I hope it will have a release in North America. I got to see Roaring Currents here this weekend and it was amazing! Still thinking about it.
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Lucie
August 17, 2014 at 5:27 PM
I also saw Roaring Currents this weekend, and it was fantastic! Probably the most exciting naval-battle movie I've ever seen.
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5 kanz
August 17, 2014 at 3:19 PM
I hope Sea Fog has quite good receptions. I read Roaring Currents is leading now, then there are also Pirates and Kundo, tough competitors.
I saw Yoochun first time in Rooftop Prince then in I Miss You and I was impressed by his acting. He's working hard to not stick label "idol" on him when acting. Although a lot of people would say it anyway because he's basically from idol background and still continue in JYJ. He's one of few idols who can act.
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6 wewen
August 17, 2014 at 4:32 PM
too bad the movie didn't doing well in box office. it still cannot hit 1 million admission even after 5 days release.
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6002lover
August 17, 2014 at 6:02 PM
scores 1 million audience in 6 days http://me2.do/xliYMtw1
Go Haemoo ><
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Deliane
August 17, 2014 at 10:37 PM
Actually when you conisder that Sea Fog is a 19+ film it's doing great in the box office. It best The Chaser for reaching a million tickets, and is just behind Ahjussi.
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7 spazmo
August 17, 2014 at 5:02 PM
Micky!! i hope it gets released in the U.S......
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8 jessie
August 17, 2014 at 5:15 PM
The subjective grade for BIG4 of South Korean films to watch this summer seems to be like this, in regards to ‘people’..
Of having success even in the box-office; RT
‘Sea Fog’ 4.0
‘Pirates’ 4.0
‘Kundo’ 3.5
‘Roaring Currents’ 3.0
(perfect score criteria of 5.0)
#SeaFog_grade #Pirates_grade
source: iClick News Twitter
Well done for a movie that is rated 19+
And 140814 MBC Newsdesk’s Entertainment Today: ‘Sea Fog’ #1 in Advance Sales Ratio, Solid Start
source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A97CZBQu4cM
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9 prisiccla
August 17, 2014 at 6:06 PM
JYJ Members take on this movie. The public response is impressive
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sDajAvz1aRc
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10 6002lover
August 17, 2014 at 6:07 PM
scores 1 million audience in 6 days
http://me2.do/xliYMtw1
Haemoo / Sea fog fighting !!
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6002lover
August 17, 2014 at 6:10 PM
I mean Haemoo / Sea Fog scores 1 million audience in 6 days
http://me2.do/xliYMtw1
Haemoo / Sea fog fighting !!
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11 ujsid
August 17, 2014 at 6:13 PM
Dang this man is FINE! ♡
Every syllable out of this man's mouth sounds like a symphony sung by the angels to me LOL.
Really anticipating "Sea fog".
Come on Yooch I am rooting for you! ♡
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12 Sue
August 17, 2014 at 6:19 PM
The pictures that accompany this article are so nice. Simple, mature, not overdone. He looks handsome and sincere.
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13 CaroleMcDonnell
August 17, 2014 at 6:20 PM
So love this guy! HE's such a sweetie.
And especially loved this because wow...the way dramaland responds to character's clothing and hair styles! -->>
"There are faces that fit certain situations, and along with that a darker complexion or shabbier attire. Do I always have to act with a tidy appearance? I don’t agree with that, and don’t think it’s necessary. If in a project, I’m playing someone who is facing death and I’m bleeding, what good is it if my face remains pristine? I don’t think that’s right.”
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14 Lotus_Blossom
August 17, 2014 at 6:52 PM
Yes, Yoochun, dramas are not fashion shows.
He might start out as an idol, but sounds like he wants to take the serious actor route.
As much as I will miss him in dramas, Yoochun should really stick to mostly movies. He can really extend his acting range there.
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Lotus_Blossom
August 17, 2014 at 10:49 PM
Oops, I meant dramas are not supposed to be fashion shows.
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15 thursdaynexxt
August 17, 2014 at 9:21 PM
“There is a scene with Moon Seung-geun where he is able to bring out some really difficult emotions. When I think back, I consider it an honor that I was able to watch those emotions directly at the scene, and I really hope audiences will get a chance to see it.”
Oh, don't worry, I'm sold! That was beautifully said.
Keeping my eye out for this one, and thanks for the interview, awcoconuts!
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16 PEACE ONEARTH
August 17, 2014 at 9:31 PM
I have not watched Seafog, or any of the other summer movies so I won't be able to comment on content.
Reading over Yoochun's interview, it reinforces why I find this guy fascinating right from the start. You would think he chooses unconventional characters for the sake of being different, but no, he is really challenging himself in a whole new territory, and doing quite well in engaging in the roles he chooses.
It's a pity when ratings and box office hits constitutes a good movie. And reading one critic's comment that it may be considered a flop of the summer movies just because it has not reached a million mark, which is quite puzzling coming from a person who walks in these circles.
Heavy movies are never quite appealing to the general crowd moviers, everyone wants a light, romantic,adventure type of movie, and I'm glad that the production team did not compromise on its content to fit in the 'G' rating.
That said I agree with @Lotus_Blossom that Yoochun should stick to movies in pursue of his acting dreams. I think too it gives him more leeway in his choices of roles.
I guess for Bong Joonho to acknowledge that the movie industry has found a talented actor . He must have saw the X-Factor in him.
I really hope to see more of this guy on the big screen:)
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17 memei
August 17, 2014 at 9:32 PM
"If in a project, I’m playing someone who is facing death and I’m bleeding, what good is it if my face remains pristine? I don’t think that’s right"
Thank you, Thank you, for saying this. It is so true. It's nice to see how humble and down to earth he is. Many movies and dramas, personally for me, are runined or feel fake when the main character is meant to be suffering or in bad circumstances , and yet there faces look as though they just filmed a commercial. It so hard to take something seriously when they have stacks of makeup on, hair perfectly framing there faces, perfect 'cuts' on there cheek and lips, that disapear the next day. No matter how good the acting is, those details make it seem not as sincere. im lookinh foreward to this, hope he does well.
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18 tieuyeunu
August 18, 2014 at 4:49 AM
Didn't watch his last few flicks...or any at all. But i like his attitude.
Especially when asked about a scene the audience should look forward too, instead of a scene involving himself like so many people will choose, he instead chose a scene that another actor did that he felt was great.
For some reason this just sound so endearing to me.
PS: I know he was part of DBSK and now is part of JYJ.
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19 Shae
August 18, 2014 at 8:37 AM
I though he did a movie where he was married to his teacher. I remember it being not to hard to watch.
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sharu
August 18, 2014 at 1:54 PM
Wasn't it a DBSK drama... Dating on earth..
Is that the one? I loved that one :) ....
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20 kiwichan
August 18, 2014 at 2:56 PM
LOL, talking about Moon Seung-geun, thanx for always sharing BTS pics of Seafog on his twitter[@actormoon] especially last night..he even tweets Yoochun's singing pic XDDD..such a cute sunbaenim^^
Anyway, I'm sooooo looking forward about Moon Seung-geun's scene eventhough Yoochun himself actually received lots of praises from film critics..good job boy!
Very well acting from all actors & very well made film! Those are good enough to hear since it's R-rated and of course will effect the views total at the same time but thank goodness for the well received :D
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21 Youngdally
August 18, 2014 at 10:39 PM
I hope they release it internationally! I want to watch it soon!!! I really respect Yoochun's work ethic. He seemed like the lazy member to me in TVXQ (in a humorous way) but now I can see how hard he works for whatever he does. I hope he continues to grow. Yoochun hwaiting!
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22 kimmy
September 29, 2014 at 6:42 AM
I love You Yoochun oppa. I haven't watch yet SEA FOG but based on reviews, You've done so good. God bless in your career !
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