Lee Dong Wook reflects on film ‘Harbin’ and South Korea’s political turmoil

Lee Dong Wook / Photo from leedongwook_official/Instagram

With South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol in prison, South Korea remains on edge and tensions between rival government factions persist outside the presidential compound. 

After issuing a shocking martial law decree last month, the impeached, jailed president now faces rebellion charges that are punishable by the death penalty or life in prison.

Yoon, 64, was arrested on Jan. 15, following a weeks-long stand-off between anti-corruption investigators and his personal security detail. He is the country’s first sitting president to be arrested and charged with a crime.

As recent developments unfold, the deep divide in South Korean society is evident, with supporters and detractors of the embattled president clashing on the streets.

The situation has not only drawn national attention but has also inspired cultural figures and actors to speak out.

Among them is acclaimed Korean actor Lee Dong Wook, who recently shared his thoughts on the ongoing crisis and expressed solidarity with citizens attending the rallies.

During a public meeting held in Jongno, Seoul and as shared by All K-pop, the “Strangers from Hell” actor candidly discussed the current political atmosphere which interestingly, intertwined his reflections with historical and cinematic parallels. 

“This is an unfortunate time for us,” he acknowledged. Lee referenced his recent film “Harbin,” which delves into Korea’s struggle for sovereignty, and noted that even during Admiral Yi Sun Sin’s era, the resilience of the Korean people was acknowledged despite challenges posed by weak leadership. 

He reflected on how, centuries later, the nation appears to be facing a similarly difficult situation, calling it both frustrating and tragic.

“Our history is filled with examples of overcoming national crises. I hope this time, too, we can endure and return our country to normalcy,” he said. 

Lee has earned acclaim for his roles in popular dramas such as “Goblin” and “Tale of the Nine-Tailed.” Beyond his acting career, he is admired for his thoughtful engagement in social issues.