Veteran actor Song Kang-ho recently sat down for an interview to discuss his first foray into television dramas, Disney+’s “Uncle Samsik.” The series, which concluded last week, sparked conversation with its unique story set in 1960s Korea and its portrayal of complex characters.
While “Uncle Samsik” garnered mixed reviews, with some viewers finding the beginning slow, others praised its nuanced storytelling and emotional depth. Song Kang-ho himself sees the drama as a counterpoint to the fast-paced and sensationalized content prevalent on streaming platforms. “Uncle Samsik” offers a slower burn, inviting viewers to savor its gentle and thoughtful approach, he suggests.
“In today’s world filled with stimulating and peripheral OTT dramas, ‘Uncle Samsik’ is a drama that can be watched heavily,” Song Kang-ho remarked. He acknowledges the potential challenge of attracting viewers to a story set in a bygone era, particularly in a world obsessed with instant gratification. Despite facing these limitations, he expressed his commitment to delivering a powerful performance, “building up” the character one scene at a time.
The heart of “Uncle Samsik” revolves around the relationship between Samsik, played by Song Kang-ho, and Kim San, portrayed by Byun Yo-han. Samsik, a resourceful and compassionate man, strives to provide for his loved ones. He represents a simple yet profound philosophy: a life where basic needs are met, allowing people to live with dignity. Intrigued by Kim San’s idealistic vision for society, Samsik becomes his devoted follower, addressing him as “Minister.”
“Samsik is someone who lived through a turbulent and harsh environment,” Song Kang-ho explains. He sees Kim San as the embodiment of a humane and hopeful approach to social change, something Samsik himself lacked. However, their ambitions for a better future are ultimately thwarted by a coup orchestrated by a cunning businessman.
The drama’s exploration of faith and sacrifice resonated with some viewers, who saw parallels to modern Korean history. However, “Uncle Samsik” avoids simplistic portrayals, with Samsik and Kim San forging their own path outside existing political factions. The series depicts a rigged election, violent suppression of dissent, and a subsequent transitional government before the coup attempt. Ultimately, it’s a story about unwavering belief, dedication, and the human cost of pursuing a dream.
One of Song Kang-ho’s greatest strengths as an actor lies in his ability to portray a range of emotions with subtle nuances. In “Uncle Samsik,” he delivers a powerful performance, particularly in the final episode. The scene where he pleads for Kim San’s life, remaining silent for an agonizing 20 seconds before breaking down in tears, is a testament to his mastery.
“What Samsik must have felt at that moment was a crushing sense of regret,” Song Kang-ho reflects. His ambition, philosophy, and life’s work all seemed to crumble before him.
Song Kang-ho credits director Shin Yeon-sik with a keen eye for uncovering compelling stories in unexpected places. He reveals a constant hunger for fresh perspectives, regardless of past achievements such as the global success of “Parasite” and his Best Actor win at Cannes. He acknowledges the prevalence of formulaic content designed for mainstream appeal but expresses a desire to venture beyond such limitations.
“Following a new perspective can lead to success or failure,” he admits, “but it’s a necessary risk. We’ve always taken this approach, and we’ll continue to do so.”
Song Kang-ho expresses a desire to connect with global audiences through projects tackling universal themes. While he doesn’t envision grand, world-altering projects, he compares his career to a marathon runner, constantly pushing forward. “Taking things one step at a time can be a grand accomplishment in itself,” he concludes with a laugh.
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