Actor Bae Hyun-sung has spoken about 'Silnakwon,' his first leading role on the big screen, according to an interview with Sports Seoul. The psychological thriller follows a mother, Ryu So-young, played by Kim Hyun-joo, who believes her son has returned alive nine years after he disappeared in a camping school bus incident. Bae plays the son, Ryu Sun-woo.

What is 'Silnakwon' about?

The story begins when the mother's son, presumed dead for nine years, unexpectedly comes back. Bae said he was drawn to director Yeon Sang-ho's exploration of the depths of human nature, and worked with the director to build a backstory that fills the nine-year gap in his character's life.

How did Bae Hyun-sung prepare for the role?

Bae said the character lost his sense of being his mother's son after he was taken, and that the emotional turning point came when his mother told him he was her only son. His transformation was also visual. Known for a clean-cut image, he appears in a sharp-eyed, grimy look that even he found unfamiliar, and he said audiences saying they did not recognize him was exactly the reaction he hoped for.

What did Bae say about working with Kim Hyun-joo?

Bae said Kim Hyun-joo's intense emotional expression made it easy for him to react naturally. Their characters reunite after nine years, clashing with anger and tears.

For international fans

Bae Hyun-sung first came to wide attention through his role in the Netflix series 'Hellbound,' where he appeared briefly in season 2 and later connected with director Yeon Sang-ho. 'Silnakwon' marks his step into a leading role on the big screen.