Ahn Seo-hyun, whose breakout performance in Bong Joon Ho's Okja introduced her to international audiences, is set to return to theaters with Hana Korea, a Korea-Denmark co-production inspired by a true story.
Director Frederik Sølberg recently revealed that Ahn had been on his radar for years.
"I had been paying attention to Ahn Seo-hyun ever since watching Bong Joon Ho's Okja," the filmmaker said, explaining the casting decision behind the upcoming feature.
Hana Korea follows Hye-sun, a North Korean defector attempting to build a new life while navigating the challenges of an unfamiliar society. The film is directed by Sølberg and co-written by Choi Sung-jae, also known internationally as Sharon Choi.
For many global viewers, Ahn remains best known for her lead role as Mija in Okja, the 2017 Netflix feature that premiered at the Cannes Film Festival and brought the young actress international recognition. Her performance earned praise for its emotional depth and natural screen presence, establishing her as one of Korea's most promising young talents.
Since then, Ahn has continued to expand her résumé through television and film projects while steadily transitioning from child actor to young leading performer.
In Hana Korea, she plays Bomi, an optimistic and energetic teenager who becomes one of the first people to welcome Hye-sun into her new environment. Through friendship, humor and everyday experiences, Bomi helps the newcomer discover a sense of freedom and belonging while adapting to life in South Korea.
The character serves as a source of warmth and vitality throughout the film, providing a counterbalance to the hardships and uncertainty surrounding Hye-sun's journey.
Hana Korea is scheduled to open in South Korean theaters on July 8.
Reported by News Culture M.J._mj94070777@nc.press
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