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Director Na Hong-jin's new film 'HOPE' is attracting considerable attention both in Korea and internationally. This is Na's first feature film in 10 years since 'The Wailing,' and its cast includes prominent Korean actors Hwang Jung-min, Jo In-sung, and Jung Ho-yeon, alongside Hollywood stars Michael Fassbender and Alicia Vikander, making it a highly anticipated release.
'HOPE' is an SF, action, and thriller film set in the fictional village of Hopohang near the DMZ, where mysterious entities begin to appear. It is reportedly one of the most expensive Korean films ever made, with a budget estimated between 50 to 70 billion KRW, and was selected for the competitive section of the 2026 Cannes Film Festival. Hwang Jung-min plays Beom-seok, the head of the Hopohang branch office, while Jo In-sung portrays Seong-gi, a hunter.
Jo In-sung's dramatic bearded appearance in 'HOPE' has become a notable talking point. On the YouTube channel 'Channel Siboya,' Jo In-sung revealed he grew the beard himself. Fellow actor Hwang Jung-min humorously commented on Jo In-sung's transformation, saying he made the handsome actor look like a beggar, adding to the film's behind-the-scenes appeal.
