On August 6, 2024, a press and distributor screening for the highly anticipated film Land of Happiness was held at CGV Yongsan I’Park Mall in Seoul. Directed by Choo Chang Min, the event provided an opportunity for actor Jo Jung Suk to reflect on his late co-star, Lee Sun Kyun.
Jo Jung Suk reminisced about working with Lee Sun Kyun, noting their strong on-screen camaraderie alongside Yoo Jae Myung, who played their adversary. He described Lee Sun Kyun as a “wonderful older brother” and highlighted his passion and warmth, both as an actor and a person. Jo Jung Suk expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the chance to collaborate with Lee Sun Kyun and conveyed a deep sense of longing for his late friend.
The film Land of Happiness explores the dramatic legal battle surrounding the 1979 presidential assassination case. Jo Jung Suk stars as Jung In Hoo, a lawyer defending Park Tae Joo, played by Lee Sun Kyun. Park Tae Joo, an upright military officer, finds himself at the center of a case with profound historical implications. Jo Jung Suk’s character initially views the courtroom as a battleground for victory or defeat but becomes disillusioned as he uncovers the manipulation of justice.
Filming for Land of Happiness concluded in 2022. Despite the film’s completion, its release faced delays due to controversies surrounding Lee Sun Kyun and his untimely death. The film is now set to be released on August 14, 2024. Additionally, another film featuring Lee Sun Kyun, Project Silence, is rumored to be scheduled for release later this year.
The screening served as a poignant reminder of Lee Sun Kyun’s contributions to cinema and the strong bonds formed during the making of Land of Happiness.
