[Interview①] "Clumsy and Analog Human" Song Ji-hyo Reveals Thriller, 'Running Man', and COVID-19

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Isul] Actress Song Ji-hyo shared various stories including the reason she returned to the thriller genre after 17 years, her activities on the variety show 'Running Man,' and her feelings about presenting a film despite the challenges of COVID-19 (novel coronavirus infection).

On the afternoon of the 2nd, at a cafe in Samcheong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, she shared various stories during an interview held ahead of the release of the film 'Intruder' (directed by Son Won-pyung).

'Intruder' is a mystery thriller where the missing younger sister Yoo-jin (played by Song Ji-hyo) returns home after 25 years, and the family gradually changes. The older brother Seo-jin, suspicious of these changes, pursues the secret of his sister and faces a shocking truth. In the film, Song Ji-hyo plays Yoo-jin, who appears gentle and kind but is shrouded in mystery with an unknown secret. The film is directed by Son Won-pyung, the author of the novel 'Almond.'

Song Ji-hyo made a strong debut with a chilling face in her first work 'Wishing Stairs' (2003), the third installment of the 'Whispering Corridors' series. At the time, the 'Whispering Corridors' series was called a gateway for stars, and it attracted attention for being the most eerie and frightening in the series. In the film, Song Ji-hyo played Jin-sung, the perennial second place student who was jealous of So-hee (Park Han-byul), who was perfect in skill, personality, and appearance. She captivated the audience by simultaneously expressing the innocence of a high school student with dreams of being the best and the ugliness of doing anything to reach the top. Now, after 17 years, she returns to the thriller genre with 'Intruder.'

On this day, Song Ji-hyo said, "I had a strong desire to try it. I really wanted it and wanted to make it mine. I wanted to work hard on it," explaining her reason for appearing in the project. She continued, "I read the script after finishing 'Unstoppable' (Seongnan Hwangso). After saying I wanted to do it, I went to the production company and found out the director was a woman. I later learned she was the author of the novel. I also didn't know it was a film produced by Jang Won-seok, CEO of BA Entertainment, who made my previous work. I became interested solely by reading the script."

She added, "After starting 'Running Man,' I kept doing bright and positive energy works, so I longed for a different kind of work or character. So when I read the script, I thought, 'Yes, I did this kind of thing before and wanted to do it again.' I liked the character, the changes, and the genre aspects," she recalled.

Song Ji-hyo has been a member of SBS variety show 'Running Man' since July 2010, running for 10 years. When asked how her bright and cheerful image on variety shows affected her acting career, she said, "Before doing variety shows, I did many dark and genre-heavy works. People often said I seemed gloomy. Because of that, I wanted to play bright roles, but the opportunity never came." She added, "After doing 'Running Man,' I was able to encounter many bright scripts, which was good. Over time, the opposite situation came, but I am satisfied and happy with the current situation," reflecting on its meaning.

When asked if she invited her 'Running Man' colleagues, who have been running together for over 10 years, to the 'Intruder' premiere, Song Ji-hyo said, "We couldn't hold a VIP premiere because of COVID-19." She added, "I have never invited them to my film premieres before. They are very busy, so I don't want to burden them. I would be grateful if they watch it, but I don't usually insist they come."

Song Ji-hyo, who secured not only male fans but also female and diverse domestic and international fans with her clumsy and analog image on variety shows, revealed that her on-screen persona is genuine. She said, "It takes me a long time to accept new things, and I tend to be lazy about it. I don't use KakaoTalk. I focused on the text messages I used before. I understand why I should accept it, but I thought it was unnecessary to use KakaoTalk when there are texts. I like old things." However, she added, "When it comes to work, I want to try new things. I am always ready to challenge and accept them." Then she laughed, saying, "But in daily life, I am not very digital."

'Intruder' was originally scheduled to be released on March 12 but was postponed once due to concerns over the spread of COVID-19, with the release date set for May 21. However, due to the resurgence caused by the Itaewon club incident, the release was postponed again to June 4. Song Ji-hyo said, "There are many disappointing parts, but I hope that even if it is a little late, the audience can enjoy the film safely. I also wanted to see the completed film quickly because I haven't seen it yet. But the wait was not hard."

She continued, "I was surprised to see people sitting with one seat apart and wearing masks at the press screening. It was the first time I saw such a situation. If we continue to follow safety rules like that day, I think it will be okay." She added, "Watching a movie in a theater after a long time felt different. I hope many people can feel the emotions I felt while following the safety rules."

Photo = Ace Maker Movie Works