Seoul: Korean actors Lee Jung-eun and Park So-dam, who starred together in the Oscar-winning film "Parasite" (2019), have reunited as mother and daughter in the upcoming Korean film "The Journey to Gyeong-ju." Lee takes on the role of Ok-sil, a bereaved mother grappling with the loss of her youngest daughter, Gyeong-ju, who dies during a school trip to the southeastern city of the same name. Park plays Yeong-joo, Ok-sil's second-eldest daughter, who aids her mother in plotting revenge against the individual responsible for her sister's death.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Kong Hyo-jin and Lee Yeon join the cast as Jang-ju and Dong-ju, the eldest and third-eldest daughters of Ok-sil, respectively. Directed by Kim Mi-jo, the family drama follows Ok-sil and her three surviving daughters as they travel to Gyeongju to seek vengeance. Lee Jung-eun humorously reflected on her past collaboration with Park in "Parasite," recalling how Park's character seemed eager to dismiss her. Lee expressed her desire to work with Park again, noting the special bond they share as mother and daughter in the new film.
Park expressed gratitude to Lee for her support both on and off the set, especially during her recovery from thyroid cancer in 2021. She described Lee as a real mother figure who was there for her during tough times. Park noted that while her character Yeong-joo often clashes with her mother, these conflicts stem from their deep love for each other.
"The Journey to Gyeong-ju" also marks Lee's second collaboration with Kong, following their work together in the 2019 rom-com drama "When the Camellia Blooms." Director Kim, who grew up as the youngest of four daughters, aimed to depict the unique dynamics among sisters and their relationship with their mother. Kim explained that at its core, the film is about love and how those left behind manage to overcome the pain of loss and understand each other.
Kong added that the film will exceed audience expectations, encouraging viewers to approach it with an open mind. "The Journey to Gyeong-ju" is set for release on August 26.