Director Jang Hang-jun of "The King's Warden", who’s set to earn the “10 Million Director” title 24 years after his debut, shared his gratitude with moviegoers.
In a written interview released on the 6th by distributor Showbox, Jang said he’s “spending each day feeling thankful,” expressing joy over the film’s blockbuster run.
On what’s next, he said he’s “reviewing the next project,” and added he’ll be ramping up preparations for the Jecheon International Music & Film Festival, where he serves as executive director.
"The King's Warden" surpassed 9 million admissions nationwide in 27 days and has reached a cumulative 9.77 million as of today (the 6th). Barring any surprises, it’s expected to cross 10 million this weekend.
Q. How have you been since the success of "The King's Warden"?
I’ve been watching a lot of films and reviewing my next project.
And I’m spending the day replying to the many congratulatory messages I’ve received, with a grateful heart.
Q. How do you feel as you approach 10 million admissions?
It’s a situation I never imagined. My family and I are happy but also careful.
When something this good happens, you start to think the opposite could follow, so I feel a bit cautious about everything.
Q. Among the film’s many elements, what do you think especially resonated with audiences?
Danjong has often been seen as weak, but he isn’t simply a fragile figure here. I think many were moved by how he grows into a resolute character and by his determination to live as a human being.
Q. The film is drawing strong reactions overseas too. What do you hope international audiences take away?
Even if you don’t know Korean history well, there’s a value we call “uiui”―a sense of righteousness. At some point, many of us started living more by calculation, less by doing what’s right even when it costs us.
I hope people reflect on the righteousness that people in the past tried to uphold.
Q. Any audience or peer reactions that really stuck with you?
I’ve received so many kind words. The most striking was, “You walk in as a viewer and walk out as a citizen.”
I also loved and appreciated, “It fills the gaps in history with warmth.”
Q. Through Danjong’s exile and tragic end, and Eom Heung-do’s loyalty to his final moments, what message did you want to share with us today?
Life can be harsh, and we often live by calculation. But I believe each of us has something we’re determined to protect.
I hope viewers ask themselves: “What is mine? What is my sense of righteousness? Where is my minimum moral line?”
Q. What’s next?
I plan to choose my next film from the projects I’m reviewing now. And in September, I’ll be busy preparing to successfully host the Jecheon International Music & Film Festival.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kim Ji-hye)