Set to uncover the story of Ashin and the resurrection plant that spurred the tragic plague in Joseon, Kingdom: Ashin of the North is all ready for its global premiere on July 23!
But before the special episode of the phenomenal hit series Kingdom releases worldwide, check out the details and insights shared by the creative team and lead cast in the recent press conference.
Lead stars Gianna Jun and Park Byung Eun together with writer Kim Eun Hee and director Kim Seong Hun responded to questions from the media people. They further provide excitement to anticipate the unveiling of Kingdom: Ashin of the North.
The Beginning of the Well-Loved Series
Part of the many reasons why Kingdom amassed an immensely loyal following worldwide is owing to its unique story. Translated to riveting scenes and impactful portrayals. the Kingdom universe created by Kim Eun Hee is rich and complex.
Sharing some of the things he found most engrossing in the series, Director Kim pointed out how the “infection happens through hunger” in the first season and the lengths that one will go to because of greed in season 2.
He also expressed eagerness to work on such amazing projects and talents.
“While we were working on the 2nd season I was able to read the script, I thought it was a superb work. There’s great joy in working on a project that I am familiar with. There’s also excitement in meeting new characters. There’s also no director who would not be willing to work with Jun Ji Hyun.”
Ashin of the North
Writer Kim Eun Hee said Ashin came while she was working in the middle part of season 2. Through her research in the Northern part of the region, Ashin was born. The story behind Ashin is a long and complex story hence the special episode would provide a deeper explanation for the viewers. Kim believes that the special episode would provide the intention and importance of Ashin and her story.
Gianna Jun made quite a stir with her appearance at the end of the second season. You may recognize the top actress from series like The Legend of the Blue Sea and My Love From the Star, but she’ll be portraying a much darker character through Ashin.
Kim Eun-hee said, “I am a fan of Gianna Jun and I admired her wide spectrum when it comes to acting. She’s considered a queen of romantic comedies, but I also liked the deep anguish she portrayed in her movies Assassination and The Berlin File.”
Gianna Jun also talked about her love for the series and how she was eager to portray any small role in the Kingdom series, even a zombie. Luckily, Gianna Jun portrays Ashin who is the key character behind all of the events in the Kingdom series. You’ll be impressed by her nuanced acting as she emotes Ashin’s complex emotions.
“In terms of physique and stamina, I was ready for Ashin. I focused on working on her emotion and her inner pain. I love Kingdom because it is a work that can’t be changed regardless of the actors playing the characters in the story. It is based on an immaculate script, amazing directing and fascinating art. It’s an honor for me to work on it. – Jun Ji Hyun
Imaginative Concept From Top Creators
With the combined genius minds of Kim Eun Hee and Kim Seong Hun, Kingdom: Ashin of the North is expected to become another compelling work. Having worked
together on the two seasons and the special episode, Kim Seong-hun said, “We are truly great partners and I really enjoy working with her.”
In the released featurette, he also talks about how he told Kim Eun-hee that Kingdom: Ashin of the North “is her best writing yet.” Gianna Jun further complimented the writer and shared, “Kim Eun-hee was the reason for me joining. There was no reason for me not to.”
Kingdom: Ashin of the North takes place before the spread of the zombie plague occurs in the first two seasons. Kim Seong-hun divulged, “This story takes place in the northern frontier near the Amnok River.” Kim Eun-hee explained, “I was curious about abandoned outposts in the north and thought about how the resurrection plant could have grown somewhere like that.”
The setting also reflects the tensions between different groups in the northern region. The historical setting adds to the elaborate story and proves it’s not like any other zombie
story.
Peerless Characters
In addition to Gianna Jun, the cast is full of talented actors like Park Byung Eun, Kim Si-a, Kim Roi-ha, and Koo Kyo-hwan. Park Byung Eun also starred in Kingdom S2 as well as many other series and movies. Kim Si-a is a rising child actress who has impressed in movies like Miss Baek, The House of Us, and more.
Kim Roi-ha is a veteran actor who has starred in numerous series and movies, and won’t disappoint with his acting as Ashin’s father. Koo Kyo-hwan is a rising actor who never fails to portray a wide variety of characters.
Reuniting for the Kingdom special episode, Jun and Park both remarked feeling elated working together again since the film Assassination. Adorably quipping how Park Byung Eun has truly improved his fishing skills, Gianna Jun also commented on the hard work of the actors donning the zombie roles in the series.
Likewise, Park Byung Eun also highlighted the dedication of the “zombie actors”. He also praised Kim Si-a who played the role of young Ashin.
Discover the origins and secrets of Kingdom: Ashin of the North on July 23 only on Netflix!
PR Source & Photos: Netflix
About Netflix
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