Hollywood star Scarlett Johansson returned to South Korea after eight years to promote her new movie, Jurassic World: Rebirth. She shared her excitement about being back, shopping for skincare in Myeongdong, and trying different types of kimchi. The press conference took place on July 1 at the Four Seasons Hotel in Seoul, where she was joined by co-stars Jonathan Bailey, Rupert Friend, and director Gareth Edwards.
Johansson, known for her role as Black Widow in the Marvel films, last visited Korea in 2017 for Ghost in the Shell. This time, she expressed her love for Korean culture and fans, making her trip both promotional and personal.
Scarlett Johanssonโs Fun-Filled Day in Seoul
During her visit, Johansson explored Myeongdong, a popular shopping district in Seoul, where she bought Korean skincare and makeup products. She also enjoyed a traditional Korean breakfast with seven types of kimchi.
“I went to Myeongdong this morning and bought a bunch of skincare and makeup products. I also tried seven different kinds of kimchi. Iโm really looking forward to meeting the fans tonight. I always feel so warmly welcomed here, and Iโm truly grateful.”
Her co-star Jonathan Bailey, visiting Korea for the first time, also shared his excitement about meeting Korean fans.
Jurassic World: Rebirth โ A New Chapter in the Franchise
Jurassic World: Rebirth, set to release on July 2, is the seventh film in the Jurassic Park series. The story follows Dr. Zora (Johansson) and Dr. Henry (Bailey) as they uncover hidden secrets on a dangerous island linked to the original Jurassic Park. The film is produced by Steven Spielberg and directed by Gareth Edwards, known for Rogue One: A Star Wars Story and The Creator.
Johansson described working on the film as a “childhood dream come true”, recalling how she first watched Jurassic Park in theaters at age 10.
“I vividly remember watching Jurassic Park at the age of 10 for the first time at the theater with my family. I’m still incredibly honored to be in the Jurassic series. I think my childhood dream came true.”
Challenges of Acting with CGI Dinosaurs
One of the biggest challenges for the actors was performing with CGI dinosaurs, which were added in post-production. Johansson explained how she had to react to a tennis ball on a stick instead of real dinosaurs.
“It was the most difficult to act while maintaining feelings of fear and tension while watching a tennis ball stuck on a stick instead of a dinosaur. The moment the action cue sign fell, the dinosaur had to show a determined, fearful look as if it were in front of him.”
Despite the difficulties, she enjoyed the action sequences, which involved a lot of running and sailing.
Meeting Korean Fans and Future Appearances
Johansson and the Jurassic World team held a red carpet event at Yeongdeungpo Times Square to meet fans. She also hinted at a possible appearance on tvNโs “You Quiz on the Block”, a popular Korean variety show hosted by Yoo Jae-suk.
Director Gareth Edwards shared his own connection to Korea, recalling how his first film, Monsters, was screened at the Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival.
A Warm Welcome from Korean Fans
Korean fans showed great excitement for Johanssonโs return, especially those who loved her as Black Widow. Her visit highlights the strong bond between Hollywood and Korean cinema, as well as the global appeal of the Jurassic World franchise.
Also Read: Scarlett Johansson Kisses Jonathan Bailey Again at Jurassic World Premiere While Colin Jost Watches
Credits: News sources: MK News, Chosun Biz
