Actor Lee Byung-hun drew a clear line at the directors’ ‘boast and gossip’ meeting, expressing his conviction.
In the 312th episode of the tvN variety show ‘You Quiz on the Block’ (‘You Quiz’), which aired on the 24th, actor Lee Byung-hun and director Park Chan-wook appeared, returning with the movie ‘Decision to Leave.’ On the broadcast, Yoo Jae-suk asked, “I heard that Director Park Chan-wook complained a lot when he saw colleagues doing well around him?” Director Park Chan-wook replied, “Is it just me? Everyone does that, I just admitted it,” which amused everyone.
Director Park Chan-wook also revealed that he once formed a group called ‘boast and gossip’ with directors like Bong Joon-ho, Ryu Seung-wan, and Kim Jee-woon. He said, “It was a gathering of directors going through tough times to watch movies and eat together. When a new work by a popular senior or colleague director was released, we vented frustrations over drinks, saying, ‘Is that the best they can do?’ or ‘How could they film like that?’”
Then, when Jo Se-ho asked, “Hyung-nim, do you sometimes think, ‘Is that the best they can do with acting?’” Lee Byung-hun replied firmly, “Oh no, I don’t think that way.” He continued, “I believe it’s wrong to compliment in front but criticize behind someone’s back,” expressing a strong stance against the culture of backbiting.
Yoo Jae-suk showed understanding by saying, “That’s a feeling anyone can relate to,” but Lee Byung-hun remained steadfast, saying, “I’m not that type of person.” Jo Se-ho mentioned, “I’ve heard rumors that you rarely talk about others,” referring to Lee Byung-hun’s personality.
Lee Byung-hun and Director Park Chan-wook collaborated for the third time through the movie ‘Decision to Leave.’ Their relationship began with the film ‘Joint Security Area’ released in 2000. At that time, Lee Byung-hun was experiencing consecutive flops, and Director Park Chan-wook was at risk of losing opportunities in Chungmuro due to prior unsuccessful works. Lee Byung-hun recalled, “When I first met Director Park, he was wearing a coat and ponytail holding a script. Just from the appearance, I thought he was unappealing,” which amused everyone.
Lee Byung-hun initially declined Director Park Chan-wook’s proposal but decided to participate after acknowledging the talent in the script he received again. The resulting film ‘Joint Security Area’ succeeded, providing a turning point for both.
