South Korean actor Song Joong Ki has opened up about the mixed reactions to his latest film, “My Name is Loh Kiwan,” expressing both his personal satisfaction with the project and his hope that viewers who initially struggle to connect with the film will give it another chance.

The Netflix movie, released on March 1st, sees Song Joong Ki portray Giwan, a North Korean defector who arrives in Belgium with a single burning desire: to survive. Despite ranking third in the platform’s global Top 10 films (non-English) just days after its release, the film has garnered a variety of opinions from audiences and critics alike.

While acknowledging the film’s success, Song Joong Ki admitted to reporters during a recent interview, “I couldn’t sleep yesterday and ended up searching for ‘My Name is Loh Kiwan’ in English. I found YouTubers reviewing it, whether it’s positive or negative, I can’t resist being curious.”

One particular point of contention has been the film’s romantic subplot, which some viewers found underdeveloped given the emotional weight of Giwan’s backstory. Addressing this criticism, Song Joong Ki stated, “I didn’t expect such polarized opinions, but when I listen to the views of those who dislike the film and see reviews, it seems they didn’t empathize with it.”

He elaborated, “Some say it’s inappropriate for a melodrama, and I understand that criticism because I once rejected this project for the same reason. But as I watched it again, I hoped that they could empathize with it over time, just like I did.”

This personal connection to the film is evident in Song Joong Ki’s words. He likened the film’s release to “letting go of my child,” expressing his hope that viewers will find value in the film beyond a single viewing, stating, “I personally like to watch a movie several times; therefore, I hope it’s not like a disposable paper cup but something that stays.”

Interestingly, Song Joong Ki initially passed on the film seven years ago, citing a lack of personal connection with the characters. He revealed, “I couldn’t empathize with the character who had a sense of guilt, wondering why they were indulging in love. The term ‘indulging in love’ itself contains criticism, and I couldn’t empathize with it.”

However, upon revisiting the script, something had shifted: “I empathized with it. Although the story remained the same, I think I changed.” This change in perspective, he believes, reflects the film’s core message: “When you want to survive and live well, you start to think about what it means to live well. Living well doesn’t mean living with your comrades but living with love from family or a lover.”

“My Name is Loh Kiwan” offers a poignant portrayal of human connection, following Giwan and Marie, a woman grappling with her own existential questions, as they find solace and hope in each other. The film is now streaming on Netflix for audiences worldwide.

“My Name is Loh Kiwan” trailer