Ma Dong-seok Delivers a Laughing Knockout: "Jung Kyung-ho from 'Apgujeong' Saved Me"

'20-Year Friendship' Jung Kyung-ho Takes on Comedy ... Opens November 30

Actors Ma Dong-seok (left) and Jung Kyung-ho are answering questions at the production presentation of the movie 'Apkujeong' held on the 17th at CGV Yongsan I'Park Mall in Yongsan-gu, Seoul. Photo by Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Isul] Actor Ma Dong-seok (51), who saved the box office with the 10-million viewer film 'The Outlaws 2,' returns with the comedy film 'Apgujeong.' His relaxed and sharp comeback delivers a fierce punch of laughter.

At the press screening of the film 'Apgujeong' (directed by Lim Jin-soon) held on the afternoon of the 28th at Lotte Cinema Konkuk University in Jayang-dong, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, Ma Dong-seok said, "It's a comedy film where the situations bring laughter," adding, "Jung Kyung-ho saved the whole film." Jung Kyung-ho recalled, "It was a set full of continuous laughter, and we enjoyed every scene while filming."

Opening on the 30th, 'Apgujeong' tells the story of Daeguk (Ma Dong-seok), a native of Apgujeong with endless business ideas and a sharp tongue, who teams up with Ji-woo (Jung Kyung-ho), a top plastic surgeon, to become the pioneer of K-beauty. Ma Dong-seok, playing Daeguk, the Apgujeong native, changed costumes more than in any of his 100-plus works. He is set to showcase his most dazzling appearance in his filmography, adding charm with his first-ever dyed hairstyle, flashy hats, and uniquely patterned silk shirts.

Ma Dong-seok recalled, "I lived in Gaepo-dong when I was young. Although it was far from Apgujeong, I often went there for work. In Apgujeong, there are people who live diligently, but I also saw many who hovered around trying to succeed." He hinted, "Someone I know was the model for the character." He said, "It was interesting to see someone I know trying to succeed in Apgujeong. He talks a lot, has high energy, and is unique." Regarding Apgujeong, Jung Kyung-ho described it as "a city of desire where people who want to succeed gather."

Although Ma Dong-seok and Jung Kyung-ho meet for the first time in the film, they revealed they have been '20-year friends' in real life. Jung Kyung-ho emphasized, "'Apgujeong' is a special film for me. It was the first project I worked on with Ma Dong-seok." He added, "I will work on many projects with Ma Dong-seok in the future," and said, "We will show you great works for a long time. It is an honor and a happiness."

Broadcasters Kim Sook and Lee Ji-hye make cameo appearances, adding more laughter. Director Lim Jin-soon explained the casting choice, saying, "I wanted to highlight that Apgujeong is a place where many celebrities actually hang out."