Director Yoon Je-kyun: "Hollywood Project 'K-pop' to Start Filming Next Year"

Director Yoon Je-kyun / Photo by CJ ENM

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Isul] Director Yoon Je-kyun is teaming up with renowned Hollywood producers to create a K-pop movie.

On the 29th, Director Yoon stated through CJ ENM, "We are currently working on the script for the global project 'K-pop: Lost in America,' aiming to start filming in the first half of next year," adding, "We plan to work with the best staff in this field."

The film depicts the story of a K-pop boy group about to make a dazzling global debut at Madison Square Garden in the United States. They board a plane to New York but end up stranded in a remote rural town in Texas without money or phones, struggling to reach their dream stage in New York by any means.

Yoon Je-kyun, the 10-million viewer director known for directing 'Haeundae' (2009) and 'Ode to My Father' (2014), will direct the film, which is co-produced by CJ ENM and producer Linda Obst, who successfully produced films such as 'Interstellar' (2014).

Director Yoon revealed that his participation in this project was thanks to the strong will of producers from both Korea and the United States. Imi Kyung, Vice Chairman of CJ Group, who has long been interested in promoting K-pop and K-culture globally, teamed up with Linda Obst, a K-pop enthusiast, to conceive this project. When the directing offer came to Director Yoon, who was looking for a global project, he readily accepted it.

Kirsten Smith, famous for adapting 'Legally Blonde,' and a world-class performance filming team, among other experts from various fields, are planned to participate in the film. It is currently reported that discussions are underway with multiple global major studios for collaboration.

Actor Cha Eun-woo, a member of the idol group Astro, has been considered for the lead role. Rebel Wilson from 'Pitch Perfect' and 'Jojo Rabbit,' as well as Charles Melton from 'Riverdale,' have also confirmed their appearances.

Director Yoon said, "There is situational humor arising from cultural clashes," and added, "We are having intense meetings with Hollywood writers to achieve global success."