Actor Lee Do-hyun is set to return to the big screen with the film "Nambeol".
"Nambeol" is a hard-boiled martial arts action film set in the early Joseon Dynasty. It follows nine warriors, each with different skills and social classes, as they head to Tsushima Island to rescue captives kidnapped by Japanese raiders. With Lee Byung-hun and Go Youn-jung already confirmed for the cast, the addition of Lee Do-hyun completes a star-studded lineup.
This project is drawing significant attention as it marks the reunion of Lee Do-hyun and cinematographer Lee Mo-gae, who built a strong rapport while working on the 10-million-viewer film "Exhuma". Notably, this film serves as Lee Mo-gae's feature directorial debut.
Lee Do-hyun plays the character 'Bo-gyeong', a rugged warrior who stands at the vanguard of the punitive force. He is a complex figure who breaks through enemy lines with relentless action while possessing a deeper sense of camaraderie than anyone else. He is also expected to shine as the loyal right-hand man to the warriors' leader, 'Im-eok' (Lee Byung-hun), raising anticipation for the overwhelming acting synergy between the two.
"Nambeol" is garnering major interest as the first directorial work by Lee Mo-gae, who has showcased a unique mise-en-scène in high-profile films such as "12.12: The Day", "Exhuma", "Hunt", "Yadang", and "Emergency Declaration". Having been recognized for his exceptional sense of style with awards including the Art Award in the film category at the 59th Baeksang Arts Awards, the Cinematography and Lighting Award at the 43rd and 37th Blue Dragon Film Awards, and the Cinematography Award at the 31st and 29th Blue Dragon Film Awards, he is expected to demonstrate his outstanding directing skills by capturing both grand narratives and intense action and visuals in this project.
With a star-studded cast including Lee Byung-hun, Go Youn-jung, and Lee Do-hyun, "Nambeol" is currently in pre-production with the goal of beginning filming in the second half of 2026.
Note: "Nambeol" is a romanization, as no official English title has been released yet.