Renowned Oscar-winning actor Youn Yuh-jung is set to grace the silver screen once again, this time in the endearing canine-centered film, “Dog Days.” Widely acclaimed for her performances in international projects such as “Minari” (2020) and the Apple TV+ series “Pachinko” (2022), Youn is poised to add another compelling role to her illustrious career.
During a press conference held in Seoul on Wednesday, Youn shared that her decision to star in the comedy-drama “Dog Days” was rooted in a promise made to director Kim Deok-min. Lightening the atmosphere with humor, Youn remarked, “I decided to star in this film just because of director Kim – not because he is super talented or something.”
The 76-year-old actor revealed a shared camaraderie with Kim, recounting experiences of being treated like “dogs” in their earlier years when Kim served as an assistant director. “Then I decided that I would star in his directorial debut film,” added Youn, who portrays Min-seo, an accomplished architect, in the movie.
The narrative of “Dog Days” revolves around six individuals leading their own lives but undergoing positive transformations through unexpected encounters with dogs. Yoo Hae-jin takes on the role of Min-sang, the building owner housing an animal hospital. Despite initially harboring a dislike for dogs, his relationship with them evolves through interactions with vet Jin-young, played by Kim Seo-hyoung.
The film boasts a stellar cast, including Kim Yun-jin, Jung Sung-hwa, Lee Hyun-woo, Tang Jun-sang, and Daniel Henney.
Yoo Hae-jin, reflecting on the film, shared that shooting “Dog Days” reminded him of his late dog, Gyeowooli, who appeared alongside him in the popular reality TV show “Three Meals a Day” in 2016. Gyeowooli passed away last April, and Yoo expressed the enduring sorrow of losing a beloved companion.
Director Kim Deok-min emphasized the priority given to the safety of the dogs during the project, highlighting the collaborative efforts with skilled trainers on set. “Thanks to the trainers who were always on the set, I was able to wait until the dogs showed great acting. All I did was install the camera and wait for them, instead of giving directions,” added Kim.
“Dog Days” is set to hit local theaters on Feb. 7, promising a heartwarming tale of connection and positive change, both for the characters and their canine companions.
