[Interview] Director Park Hoon-jung: "Lee Jung-jae's 'New World 2' Will Come Out Someday"

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Director Park Hoon-jung Photo by Yonhap News

Director Park Hoon-jung (49) has left open the possibility of producing the film 'New World 2'.

Recently, at a cafe in Samcheong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Director Park said, "'New World' sequel script has been in preparation," adding, "It will come out someday."

'New World' (2013), directed by Park Hoon-jung, is a film depicting men's friendship, loyalty, and betrayal, which attracted a cumulative audience of 4.68 million and achieved great success as a film rated for adults only.

The film, starring Lee Jung-jae, Choi Min-sik, Hwang Jung-min, and Park Sung-woong, left numerous memorable lines such as "I'll let you live" and "Come in," along with impressive scenes, earning praise for expanding the horizon of Korean-style noir.

When 'New World' surpassed 3 million viewers at the time of its release, Director Park released an epilogue video featuring actors Ma Dong-seok and Ryu Seung-beom. Additionally, based on the post-credits cookie video inserted at the end of the film, it was speculated that a trilogy series including prequel and sequel might be envisioned.

Due to its attractive characters and limitless expansion potential, various talks about a sequel have emerged. Especially this year, as 'New World' marks its 10th anniversary, interest among movie fans has grown even higher.

It is known that Director Park has been discussing various possibilities regarding the 'New World' sequel with Studio&NEW, a subsidiary of NEW, the investment and distribution company of 'New World,' for several years.

Some are skeptical about the production, citing difficulties in coordinating the schedules of Lee Jung-jae, who led the blockbuster success of the Netflix OTT series 'Squid Game,' along with Choi Min-sik, Hwang Jung-min, and Park Sung-woong.

Movie 'New World' Poster [Photo by NEW]

When asked about this, Director Park Hoon-jung said, "'New World' sequel has been discussed with Lee Jung-jae for a long time. It might be good if Lee Ja-sung (played by Lee Jung-jae) shows a more mature, middle-aged vibe. It would be fine to do it when he ages gracefully."

Regarding practical matters such as the appearance fees and schedules of top-tier actors including Lee Jung-jae, Director Park laughed and said, "That's something the investors need to consider."

Director Park viewed 'New World 2' positively. He spoke cautiously but clearly, emphasizing, "'New World 2' will definitely come out someday."

Meanwhile, Director Park Hoon-jung's film 'Gentleman' was released on the 21st of last month and is currently meeting audiences in theaters.

Director Park said, "As a director making commercial films, there is always pressure regarding box office performance. Even if it doesn't succeed commercially, I don't want to incur losses." He added, "The film market is not doing well. I feel that the public's interest in watching movies in theaters has declined."

He continued, "I generally want to make films without spending too much on production costs, but realistically, there are difficulties. I always carry that burden."

Director Park also said, "We need to think about what kind of movies are worth watching in theaters. Previously, I expected that a certain genre or story would be enough to attract audiences, but now the standards have risen. I believe all filmmakers of this era are contemplating this."