Ha Yoon Kyung shares her experience playing a complex character in Gangnam B-Side
Behind-the-scenes of The Land of Happiness unveiled.
The Land of Happiness tells the story of lawyer Jung In Hoo (Jo Jung Suk) struggling to save Park Tae Joo (Lee Sun Kyun), whose life hangs on the verdict in the trial of the October 26, 1979 presidential assassination case.
The behind-the-scenes video commences with director Choo Chang Min and the actors explaining, "The Land of Happiness is about the events of October 26 and December 12, 1979," "It's a story about a lawyer who fights with all his might to save a person who gets caught up in a massive incident that shook modern history," and "It has both emotion and spectacular tension."
In the video, Jo Jung Suk said he wanted to play the character as soon as he read the script. He introduced Jung In Hoo, saying, "He's a character who values victory over the right and wrong."
Lee Sun Kyun, who comes as Park Tae Joo, the executive secretary to the chief of intelligence, introduced his character as "a very upright and honest person."
Director Choo Chang Min added, "I remember the staff cheering when he put on makeup. I think he embodied the character to perfection," heightening expectations.
Jeon Sang Doo, the head of the joint investigation unit, played by Yoo Jae Myung, is described as "the real power behind the scenes and the one responsible for the incident," impresses with his aura and strong presence, just as director Choo hoped, saying, "I wanted an actor with a strong presence."
The behind-the-scenes video also gives a glimpse into the making of the courtroom scene, a highlight of The Land of Happiness. Director Choo said, "I was determined to do a good job with the court scene," revealing that he referenced documentaries to capture the military court's glory, including the positions of the defense team, the audience, and the number of defendants.
Viewers can also see the visiting room of the army prison. Since the actual location no longer exists, it had to be recreated from imagination. Director Choo used the corridors of an old army hospital in Gwangju to capture the period feel, supplementing it with iron bars to complete the set.
The Land of Happiness is set to premiere on August 14. Watch the behind-the-scenes video here.
