The cast and director of Twenty Five Twenty One give a walkthrough of their filming process and experiences at the media conference earlier.
Three days left before the premiere of tvN’s new Saturday-Sunday drama. Hence, before the series’ first broadcast, the cast and director of Twenty Five Twenty One unpacked interesting insights about the series.
Actors Nam Joo Hyuk, Choi Hyun Wook and actresses Kim Tae Ri and Bona are all present for the live conference. On the other hand, writer Kwon Do Eun, unfortunately, could not make it. Nonetheless, Director Jung Ji Hyun kept a notebook with him containing some of the thoughts writer Kwon Do Eun wished to impart.
Each of them answered the curious questions of journalists. As a result, they have painted a more vivid background of the drama to boost anticipation and viewing experience.
In detail, the story takes place in 1998. Moreover, it follows the lives of young people who find new meaning and growth after having their dreams shattered. Particularly, Na Hee Do. She competes for her high school’s fencing team. However, the high school fencing team is disbanded as a result of the South Korean financial crisis.
Nevertheless, after overcoming all obstacles, she is selected to be a part of the national saber fencing team. Subsequently, she will meet someone first time when she is 18 years old. Fate will make them fall in love years later when they are already 25 and 21.
Nam Joo Hyuk and Kim Tae Ri Exude Bright and Beautiful Vibe In “Twenty Five Twenty One Posters”
Director’s Viewpoint
As the captain of the Twenty Five Twenty One ship, a lot of questions during the press conference were intended to unravel the director’s point of view. For that reason, Director Jung Ji Hyun was asked about the execution of set designs and the essence of the series’ premise.
“The current styling is something you are able to see in the footage. And that is something we want to portray really well. There were a lot of changes in the styling for the past few decades. They look similar but slightly different (between two different generations.) Those were the elements created to set the style right. It required a lot of efforts but we were able to pull it off really well.”
In detail, he said that the ’90s was a period time when a lot of changes happened. Moreover, back then he was a student. He said that his inspiration for this series came from how young people overcame their hardships during a difficult period in the history of South Korea.
“What sets it apart from other dramas is that it depicts the time period it is set in in the most realistic way possible and during the most difficult period in Korean History and it is depicted very well in this story. It will be meaningful for the present time viewers because of the COVID 19 pandemic. It will resonate with them.”
Reminiscing The Production Phase
Each member of the cast and director Jung Ji Hyun himself supplemented details about the released stills and posters. When asked about their memories of the shoot, the cast took turns sharing how they prepared for their portrayals.
“I wanted to convey the right kind of portrayal so I actually communicated a lot with the actual sports journalists. There are lots of scenes where I do the actual reporting. I constantly check if it’s the right way to go. Those small details were always on my mind.” – Nam Joo Hyuk
Moreover, he added “Actually, I didn’t focus on showing anything new when it comes to myself. rather I focus on showing diverse aspects of myself.” In fact, the cast members have different approaches to their preparations. For instance, actresses Tae Ri and Bona shared they equipped themselves with the necessary fencing skills.
“First of all, fencing is the most important thing in Yu-rim. Thus, I practiced a lot. I practiced shorter than Kim Tae Ri. She will go practice every morning so I had to follow suit and learn lessons. Both of us are really competitive.” – Bona
Gearing Up To Vibrant Characters
Just from the promotional materials alone, it is evident to fans and media personnel alike how thoughtfully planned the style, art design and wardrobe are for this series. The cast members and Director Jung was asked to spill details about this.
“I haven’t lived through the time period. It was before I was born. So I looked into the trend and accessories. But I think fashion is about confidence. So when it comes to fashion confidence is key.” – Choi Hyun Wook
He also added that Similar to Hyun Wook, Tae Ri shared how she effectively transformed into Na Hee Do, the main female lead. She said that it was all thanks to good skincare and appropriate wardrobe inspired from 90’s magazines as references.
“Appearance-wise I got bangs to look younger and also went for some skincare. I did research on wardrobe and fashion to get the tone for Na Hee-do. I was able to act quite naturally and the energy from the set helped a lot.” – Kim Tae Ri
On the other hand, Nam Joo Hyuk shared how he was able to internalize his character efficiently. He said that his main goal in this portrayal is to make his character colorful.
“I wanted to convey the right kind of portrayal to the viewers. So I actually communicated a lot with the actual sports journalists. And there are lots of scenes where I do the actual reporting. I constantly check if it’s the right way to go. Those small details were always on my mind.” – Nam Joo Hyuk
Meanwhile, Choi Hyun Wook claimed that he has never seen any actual fencing matches before starring in this drama. The Racket Boys actor claimed that he was reminded of when he had to practice badminton.
Describing her role, Lee Joo Myung said she’s kind of indifferent about everything. But she’s very honest about her emotions. I had to play DJ, broadcasting so I listened to audio files from the past.
On Characters’ Charms and Synergies
When asked to describe the characters they are portraying, actress Kim Tae Ri said:
“The biggest charm of Hee-do. She’s very bold because she’s confident in herself. She knows what she likes, what her potential and what she wants. Just like Hee-do, I am a person who is transparent. When I’m happy, I am and vice versa.”
On that note, the main female and male lead’s chemistry was also a hot topic.
“Immature and naive. Hee-do and Yi-jin are starting everything together. That’s what makes their chemistry attractive.” – Kim Tae Ri
“I think ‘youth’ is also an apt word to describe us two.”– Nam Joo Hyuk
Likewise, actor Choi Hyun Wook’s answer was about his character’s charm as well, stating “My character has a lot of charms. So you have to wait and watch it to see the charms explode.” Not only that but, according to actress Bona, the chemistry between the characters Yu-rim and Ji-woong is cute as described.
Extra Scoop
What is more, before wrapping up the live press conference, the characters shared fun facts and exclusive information regarding them while they were still filming. Like why they agreed to be a part of this drama, what they were doing while the production is ongoing and a few other thoughts they wish to share with the viewers.
“The reason why I picked the show is that it was fun. It was a beautiful and kind story that makes you happy. It’s a character that is energetic, something I haven’t done before. That’s why I like it.” – Kim Tae Ri
The actress also stated that Twenty Five Twenty One is a drama that is blissful and it will really shine. In particular, viewers should focus on their promising shining moments. Besides that, Actress Bona shared that while they were shooting the series she gained a lot of good memories. She sincerely hopes it will be delivered to the viewers.
Nam Joo Hyuk also shared a spoiler free context.
“So I was the only person in my 20’s in the show and I was actually dragged by these teenagers in the show. And the playground was always full of events. I was able to mingle with them easily.”
Message For The Viewers
Director Jung Ji Hyun and Nam Joo Hyuk left a few words they wish to convey to everyone who will watch the drama. And with that, the press conference ended leaving us in high spirits as we wait for our first look into this 2022 Korean drama.
“Anyone can fail and anyone can succeed. That also applies to the world we are living in now. Looking at our show, we hope you can bring back the memories of your past and appreciate your present.” – Director Jung Ji Hyun
“Like this very cold winter, I hope that we can provide you with warmth through this show. Now spring will come. I hope that Twenty Five Twenty One can bring back the memories of spring. So you can enjoy spring with our drama.” – Nam Joo Hyuk
Don’t miss the premiere of Twenty Five Twenty One on February 12 at 9pm on tvN. International fans can stream the series on Netflix.
Check out the live Twitter thread below.
We will be covering #TwentyFiveTwentyOne press conference later at 2PM KST. Post-event features on kdramadiary and hellokpop later.😎#NamJooHyuk #KimTaeRi #Bona #ChoiHyunWook
✨In case you missed recent updates, you can read here 🔗https://t.co/oh7msolPas pic.twitter.com/KGpBkKzBX3
— kdramadiary (@kdramadiarylogs) February 9, 2022
PR Source: Netflix | Photos and Videos: Netflix
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