Seoul: Director Hwang Byeong-guk of the upcoming crime-action movie "Yadang: The Snitch" was instantly attracted to the story of snitches who operate between drug dealers and authorities, selling secret information and tips to investigators. The director said he came across a news article in 2021 about snitches who visit prosecutors' offices daily to exchange information. Their ambiguous moral standing intrigued him, inspiring him to develop a film on the subject.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Hwang expressed that the snitches appear to be working legally, yet there is something dubious about them, as they exist in a gray area. He shared these thoughts at a press event in Seoul, stating that he found it would make for an interesting film. The film seeks to distinguish itself from the plethora of drug-related movies by focusing on the role of an informant.
"Yadang: The Snitch" features actor Kang Ha-neul as Lee Kang-su, a wrongfully convicted man serving time behind bars. He is recruited by ambitious prosecutor Koo Kwan-hee, played by Yoo Hae-jin, to work as a snitch. Their covert alliance takes a turn when drug detective Oh Sang-jae, portrayed by Park Hae-joon, becomes involved following an incident linked to the child of the country's most powerful presidential hopeful.
Kang Ha-neul described the movie as more than just a typical drug crime movie. He noted that the scenario is incredibly well-structured, and he was so captivated by it that he read it all in one go.
This film marks Hwang's first feature in 14 years since the 2011 crime action film "S.I.U.," which starred Uhm Tae-woong and Joo Won. Aside from directing, Hwang has a prolific career as a supporting actor, most recently appearing in the 2023 political film "12.12: The Day."
Kang valued the director's deep understanding of acting, which he found invaluable in shaping his performance. He mentioned that there are certain aspects of acting that only those who have been in front of the camera can truly grasp, and the director excelled at discussing those details with him.
Hwang conducted extensive research on drug addicts and dealers, including high school students, to create a film that raises public awareness of the serious issue while remaining immersive and gripping for audiences. Yoo Hae-jin described the film as "brimming with realism" and praised its engaging and fast-paced storytelling.
"Yadang: The Snitch" is set to hit local theaters on April 23.