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BLACKPINK’s Jisoo is about to make her highly anticipated film debut with Omniscient Reader: The Prophet, set to release in less than a week. Ahead of the premiere, a press interview was held in Seoul where director Kim Byung Woo addressed the ongoing debate surrounding her casting. While many fans have expressed concern about Jisoo’s relatively limited acting experience, Kim acknowledged those doubts but stood by his creative choice. His remarks suggested that Jisoo’s casting was both a strategic and narrative decision rather than merely a celebrity-driven move.
In the film, Jisoo plays Lee Ji Hye—a character who doesn’t appear until midway through the story but plays a crucial role from that point on. Kim explained that the delayed entry required an actress who would immediately capture the audience’s attention. According to him, Jisoo’s immediate recognizability as a global star offered that precise impact. He described the casting as deliberate and layered, saying her popularity was essential to ensure the character wouldn’t fade into the background once introduced. He admitted the concerns about her acting were valid, but believed that her involvement would elevate the role’s presence in the film.
In addition to the acting discourse, fans of the original web novel raised eyebrows over creative liberties taken in adapting the character. In particular, Lee Ji Hye’s use of a modern firearm in the movie—rather than the sword she is known for in the source material—sparked some controversy. Kim addressed this head-on, saying that the firearm was a conscious deviation meant to set her apart from other sword-wielding characters in the narrative. He admitted that some nuanced mystical elements, including her ties to historical figure Admiral Yi Sun Sin, were omitted from the script. While they anticipated some disapproval, the decision was made to serve the cinematic format more effectively, even if it meant straying from canon.
Despite the polarized opinions, Kim’s remarks revealed a carefully considered approach. He emphasized that Jisoo’s casting wasn’t simply about drawing crowds—it was about making a lasting impression through a short but pivotal role. In doing so, he hoped to blend star power with narrative momentum. As the release date approaches, audiences are curious to see if Jisoo’s presence will meet or defy expectations. Omniscient Reader: The Prophet opens in South Korean theaters on July 23, and with it, Jisoo officially begins a new chapter in her entertainment career.