SEOUL — Director Kim Han-min is poised to release “Roryang: Deadly Sea,” the final chapter in his trilogy centered on South Korea’s esteemed naval hero, Admiral Yi Sun-sin. At a media event on Wednesday, Kim expressed his anticipation for the film, which culminates a decade-long project. A
According to Yonhap News Agency, “Roryang” integrates the expertise and advanced cinematography technologies he honed in the first two films of the series. The previous installments, “Roaring Currents” (2014) and “Hansan: Rising Dragon” (2022), garnered significant public attention, with “Roaring Currents” drawing a record-breaking audience of over 17.6 million viewers and “Hansan” attracting more than 7.2 million.
The film, distributed by Lotte Entertainment, portrays the last naval battle led by Adm. Yi in November 1598 during the Imjin War, the Japanese invasion of Korea from 1592-98, culminating in the admiral’s death. “Roryang” features a 1 hour and 40 minute battle sequence, described as depicting “Asia’s deadliest naval warfare,” filled with elaborate effects and intense night fight scenes. The film also delves into the interpersonal tensions and confrontations among its characters.
Kim Yun-seok, known for his roles in “Tazza: The Hidden Card” (2014) and “Escape from Mogadishu” (2021), portrays Admiral Yi, while Baek Yoon-shik plays his nemesis, Japanese general Shimazu Yoshihiro. Director Kim Han-min selected Kim Yun-seok for the lead role, citing his ability to embody both the passion and pragmatic attitude of Admiral Yi. Actor Kim Yun-seok acknowledged the pressure and privilege of portraying the iconic figure.
The director, who made his feature film debut in 2007, reflected on Admiral Yi’s personal significance, noting his growing respect and contemplation of Yi’s legacy and the lessons derived from his relentless pursuit of enemies. Despite the dark themes associated with death, the director hopes the film will offer comfort and courage to audiences.
“Roryang: Deadly Sea” is scheduled for release in local theaters on December 20.