Movie enthusiasts flocked to the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) on Sunday, eager to see Korean stars Lee Dong-Wook and Hyun Bin at the premiere of their new historical drama, “Harbin.” Fans braved long hours outside the venue for a chance to glimpse the actors, who appeared on the red carpet, reflecting the global surge in Korean cultural influence.
Lee Dong-Wook, known for his role in the popular drama “My Girl,” expressed his gratitude and excitement during his first TIFF appearance. This screening marks the actor’s debut at the festival.
“Harbin,” directed by Woo Min-ho, depicts a small but valiant resistance army fighting against Japanese colonial rule in early 20th century Korea. The film’s plot centers around the fighters’ daring mission in Harbin, China, to assassinate Japan’s first prime minister. Woo Min-ho, renowned for “The Man Standing Next,” which represented South Korea in the Best International Feature Film category at the 2021 Academy Awards, directs the film.
Among the attendees was Angelah, a 26-year-old fan who grew up with K-dramas and Korean cultural influences. She described the experience of seeing the actors in person as a profound moment, reflecting on how art transcends boundaries and connects people across different cultures.
“Seeing them both go from the screen to an in-person event here in Toronto is especially thrilling for me. Art truly is boundless, breaking barriers and creating ties between people, no matter where they’re from,” Angelah remarked.
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