Lee Byung-hun says "I lost my six pack to perfectly portray the king" Reporter: Lee Tae Ho Editor: Monica Suk KStar10
Actor Lee Byung-hun, who is famous for his skillful acting as well as well-muscled body, said that he chopped off his wavy locks to make himself more look like the king of the Joseon Dynasty.
Lee’s remark made at a press conference for “Masquerade” held in Seoul on September 3, was enough to show that the actor does not mind sacrificing for the double role as a king and a clown in his first historical movie in his 22-year acting career.
“Before the shooting got started, the director told me that he didn't want the king in the Joseon Dynasty period to have a six-pack. So I lost my six-pack abs to perfectly portray the king. It was easy because what I had to do was just not to exercise and go on a diet,” Lee said with a smile.
However, the actor said there were some difficulties during the shooting and that is when he had to find the perfect voice that suits the king.
While he later enjoyed using the unique voice tone used in historical films even in his everyday life, Lee explained the hardest thing in his first historical movie was not playing a double role but portraying the maturing process of Ha-sun.
"The attractive character, who is a clown that temporally substitutes the king, becomes more mature just like a real king during the movie. Because the shooting was not taken in a chronological order of the story, it was difficult for me to act out Ha-sun's changing process.”
Helmed by director Choo chang-min, “Masquerade" revolves around a low-class clown Ha-sun [played by Lee] becoming a misfortunate historic figure, King Gwang-hae of the Joseon Dynasty, who perfectly resembles Ha-sun himself.
While Lee plays the double role of Gwanghae and Ha-sun, actor Ryu Seung-ryeong and actress Han Hyo-joo each play a loyal courtier and the queen of the Joseon Dynasty.
Lee Byung-hun’s first period-set movie “Masquerade” is slated to open in local theaters on September 20.
Lee Byung Hun Says Lee Min Jung is the Only Woman Who Makes Him Smile CJ E&M enewsWorld Lee, JinHo Translation Credit: Erika Kim
“She’s the only woman who can make me smile.”
Actor Lee Byung Hun’s voice shook with emotion. The shaking voice then continued to say, “I thank [Lee] Min Jung so much I’m brought to tears.”
They were two short sentences, but they were sentences that helped everyone feel how much he loved the actress.
Lee Byung Hun, who recently made public his relationship with Lee Min Jung, talked about how he felt toward his lover.
The media day event for the film Masquerade was held at a pub in Seoul on September 4. The event featured director Choo Chang Min and actors Lee Byung Hun, Ryu Seung Ryong, Han Hyo Joo and Kim In Kwon.
In the screening of the film held the same day, Lee Byung Hun awed all in attendance with his perfect rendition of Joseon’s 15th King Gwanghae and a low-class man named Ha Sun. For the media day event, however, he became an ordinary man in love when he touched on his relationship with Lee Min Jung.
Lee Byung Hun said with a smile to a question asked by a reporter, “She’s a woman I can talk to, and she’s the only woman who can make me smile.”
He then said about how his relationship had gone public, “I actually liked it that it’s become widely known. I thought that now we don’t have to care for what other people think about us and move more comfortably. The sad thing is that because my promotion and flight schedules are so tight, I may not be able to meet her before I leave the country for an on locale shoot.”
On August 20, Lee Byung Hun revealed through a handwritten letter that he was dating Lee Min Jung.
‘There’s a person I always want to be with,’ he had said. ‘Years ago I met with Lee Min Jung through an acquaintance, and near the beginning of this year we happened to meet by chance. It was then that the emotions sprouted between us.’
The actor added about his lover at the event, “She’s so much younger than me, so I’m so sorry toward [Lee] Min Jung. Recently, though, she brought sandwiches and special lunch boxes for me and the staff on set. Everyone gave her a thumbs up, saying they were delicious. I was very thankful then. I thought she wouldn’t know how to cook, but she was good at it.”
Lee Byung Hun, however, didn’t want the issue to cover up his piece after being blown up out of proportion.
“I’m sorry the attention is mostly concentrated on my relationship. Today is a day for everyone who worked so hard; the director, actors and staff. I’m sad their efforts may be overshadowed by my relationship. It’s a great piece. Please send it your love.”
Lee Byung Hun, "Lee Min Jung's wisdom over beauty" Source: Nate via hancinema.net
Actor Lee Byeong-Heon chose wisdom as one of his lover Lee Min-jeong's best qualities.
The Media Day for "Masquerade" was held on the 3rd. Many reporters and movie industrial people attended this event as it is expected to be the best movie to this end of the year.
About Lee Min-jeong, he said, "She's wiser than beautiful".
He revealed various stories of his girlfriend bringing him homemade lunches and seemed comfortable to do so.
It looks like we are going to have to wait for them to appear in public together as she didn't attend the Media Day.
Lee Byung Hun: "Revealed Relationship With Lee Min Jung Because I Didn't Want To Lie" BY KOREAPORTAL STAFF WRITER
"I didn't want to lie."
Actor Lee Byung Hun revealed on the 19th of August that he was dating actress Lee Min Jung and has revealed information about his relationship with her for the first time.
On the 3rd of September, Lee Byung Hun attended the event for the movie 'Masquerade.' On the reason why he revealed his relationship with Lee Min Jung, he said, "If I keep hiding it I thought that there would be no end. I didn't want an assumption to lead to another assumption. I didn't want to lie."
When asked if he invited Lee Min Jung to the 'Masquerade' VIP early premiere, he replied by saying, "I don't think she will be able to come because of a commercial shooting."
On the other hand, the movie 'Masquerade' will be released on the 19th of September.
All eyes were on Hallyu actor Lee Byung-hun when he attended a press conference for the movie “Gwanghae” yesterday at a pub in Jongno District, central Seoul.
Despite the fact that the event was staged to promote the movie co-starring actors Han Hyo-joo, Ryu Seung-ryong and Kim In-kwon, reporters bombarded Lee with questions about his girlfriend, Lee Min-jung.
“I owe so much to her,” Lee said. “We can talk for hours, and she is also the only woman who can make me laugh.”
The 42-year-old star did add that their 12-year age gap was not ideal.
“I do feel bad for her that she’s dating someone so much older,” he said. But he added that Lee Min-jung was wise beyond her years and had recently impressed not only him but the cast and crew of his movie by sending them homemade lunch.
In regards to making the public announcement just last month, Lee said it has made life easier.
“It’s nice to think that we don’t have to hide our relationship,” he said.
Lee Byung Hun Modestly Talks about How He Danced for 'Masquerade' CJ E&M enewsWorld Oh, MiJung Translation Credit: Erika Kim
Lee Byung Hun danced his heart out for the film Masquerade.
For the film, Lee Byung Hun became both King Gwanghae and the wandering storyteller Ha Sun. When telling his stories in the streets as Ha Sun, Lee Byung Hun even had to dance out some parts of the stories. It is certainly a rare sight to see, as the actor has taken up many different roles but there weren’t many pieces in which he had to dance.
Lee Byung Hun attended the preview and press roundtable held on September 3 for Masquerade with director Choo Chang Min and the actors Ryu Seung Ryong, Han Hyo Joo and Kim In Kwon, and talked about what happened behind the scenes of the film.
At the roundtable, Lee Byung Hun said about his dance, “I used a double for scenes where I had my back turned away from the camera. I attended classes for traditional dances, but they weren’t easy. My teacher danced for the scenes where I had my back turned.”
Director Choo Chang Min said, however, to Lee Byung Hun’s modesty, “More than 90 percent was acted out by Lee Byung Hun. He worked so hard to learn how to dance.”
Lee Byung Hun finished, “I’ve been in this job for so long, but it’s still hard for me to hide how nervous I am at [previews]. I don’t think I’ve ever said any of my pieces are interesting so people should watch it. This one, however, is really interesting. I hope a lot of people come to see it.”
Masquerade is about how the low-class Ha Sun takes the place of King Gwanghae, who is put under the danger of being poisoned. It is based on the 15 days that are actually missing from King Gwanghae’s historical records. Lee Byung Hun took on the roles of both Gwanghae and Ha Sun. The film will premiere on September 19.
Our special August editorial, copied from the complete post at EverythingLBH.com
We weren't planning on another editorial so soon after the birthday editorial but so unexpected is life. And this is one of the most major moments in being Lee Byung Hun fans that we can't overlook, something that many have been wishing for quite a long time. We never had major news released on a Sunday morning but the updates came out in such force on August 19. We don't get Lee Byung Hun writing heartfelt handwritten messages that often either, only when something really important happens As it turned out, Lee Byung Hun and Lee Min Jung were & are truly a couple as the initial rumor circulating since 4 months ago suggested. It resurfaced in mid-August when it seemed that Seoul was abuzz with a certain wedding rumor that both Lee Byung Hun and Lee Min Jung had written in an intimate & personal handwritten messages to the fans to tell them what's truly in their hearts. Adding a thoughtful touch that both consulted in each other over their messages to his and her fans. Not at all awkward but frankly very sweet & gentle.
Back-tracking, August started strong when Nautica Outdoor store opened its doors in Seoul on August 7 highlighting trendy and stylish winter gear with co-endorser, actress Oh Yeon Seo. And finally Gwanghae cast and director met the media for the first time in a press conference on August 13. Quite a lot were revealed about Lee Byung Hun in the event, how he loves to eat and be the first at the meal truck, gained a new friend, showed hiscomic talent & humorous side in Gwanghae and how he was being treated differently in school despite having a high IQ of 155.
A cool pictorial was also released as LBH appeared on the Z_ZIN magazine no.9 issue, a photoshoot by the famous phptographer Zo Sun Hi who's also a close friend of BH. A range of messy sexy yet gentle photos were released to the delight of fans anticipating the New King.
From Nautica to NESCAFé -- a new endorsement of what's probably the most widespread and most popular coffee brand name in Asia especially, our BH is now the new model for NESCAFé Korea. How utterly cool is that, what a great cup of treat indeed! Anyone notice a subconscious wedding concept at the intro? LOL.
Though the movie is yet to be released.. Masquerade (or Gwanghae in Korea) have been receiving attention worldwide. At the LACMA screening on the 14th September, Lee Byung Hun will be in LA again to present his latest movie. Then a North American release starting September 21 in quite a number of selected theaters across the States. Luckier US fans! And again, as the opening film to be screened at the Atlanta Korean Film Festival in October. The King is certainly going places but an honour that gives a positive vibe all around when Masquerade have been short listed as one of South Korean's possible Academy Awards nominees for the Oscar Best Language Film along 4 other incredible movies. Final selection will be known next week but already a cool recognition regardless, to be picked for an Oscar consideration. A step closer, one day at a time.
Out of consideration for his fans, Lee Byung Hun also took the time explaining why he had denied the relationship rumor. Really can't blame a man in love for wanting to protect something and someone so precious to him. It's already hard enough maintaining a relationship in this world what more with the magnified attention the lives of the celebrities like LBH and LMJ are getting. And still it's no guarantee for an easy path for the pair even though they had actually dated each other briefly 6 years ago and maintained a professional relationship till early this year. They, whom were never strangers in the first place, are now rekindling their romance in a more mature, stronger and closer feeling, hopefully.
So, now that the cat is truly out of the bag.. it won't be speculative any more when and if LMJ visits BH in Europe when he's filming RED 2. It'll be a vacation for her and a time together for both. Remember in his Rise of Cobra interview that he envied the Channing-Jenna couple, this time it won't be so lonely for Lee Byunghun-ssi when he goes for overseas filming.
With the wonderful confirmation, many of our hearts are at ease as well now that BH has a girl he loves to share everything with. From Lee Min Jung's statement about the relationship with LBH, it's clear she really likes and cares for him which means a lot. It's heartwarming to note how LBH and LMJ are developing their personal chemistry without being in a drama/CF/movie together and how close they already are, meeting each other every week and keeping such positive attitude.. in every way and every day. He must have made her laugh a lot, the funny charming person he is and she indulges him in good conversation as he likes to have.
We are grateful and most delighted for Lee Byung Hun-ssi as he deserves the happiness, bliss and presence of a precious person in his life. And they are trying earnestly to be true to their own feelings, being the celebrities with so much obstacles to counter in the industry. It isn't easy for him considering a lot of things but he found the girl he likes and she likes him back. A 12-year age gap isn't a huge obstacle if they understood & trusted each other. His buddy, actor Lee Beom Soo has a 13-year gap with his wife and they could not be happier with a cute little daughter. As long as they can overcome any insecurities and rely on each other's love and strength.. there will definitely be a happy meaningful life together. If it's meant to be, they will be meant to be.
Ohh.. just one last but not least sweet tidbit from the official couple as shippers would usually look out for, Lee Min Jung was checking out some winter jumpers during her Kolon Sports store event on August 25 while our BH was at the Nautica Outdoor store on August 31 also checking out some winter apparels. Couple-coincidence.. like, why not?
Anyway.. our next editorial would probably be at the end of the year when we send in our Christmas and New Year wishes to BH but who knows, if there'll be another 'emergency/special' editorial.. due.. to perhaps a wedding? We'll see. ^^
In the meantime.. wishing more happiness all the time to Byunghun-ssi & Minjung-ssi, Congratulations!
When Actor Ryu Seung Ryong Was Compared To Lee Byung Hun, "If Only I Was Born A Year Earlier…" BY KOREAPORTAL STAFF WRITER
When actor Ryu Seung Ryong was acted a question about being compared to actor Lee Byung Hun, who is the same age as he is, he answered very wittily, causing everyone to burst into laughter.
On the 3rd of September, Ryu Seung Ryong attended the press screening of 'Masquerade.' He was asked, "You are the same age as Lee Byung Hun, but when compared to him, what do you think his secrets to staying youthful is?"
Ryu Seung Ryong then sighs heavily and replies, "Oh, if only I was born a year earlier. Fortunately, there are other actors the same age as me, such as Go Chang Seok, who give me comfort," drawing much laughter.
He continued, "Lee Byung Hun takes care of himself very well. He exercises consistently and watches what he eats and that is how he stays looking young."
He went on, "Even when a guy looks at Lee Byung Hun, he is a loveable actor. There are many actors who try to stand out by themselves but Lee Byung Hun shines with others. He is considerate and he is someone to learn from."
On the other hand, 'Masquerade' is planned to premiere on the 19th of September.
katt...xsabo la nak tggu berita gembira dr BH n MJ......
lambat lagi kah diorg nak kawen arr....? terbayg2 dh anak2 diorg nnt tue..... Last edited by ismaha on 5-9-2012 04:28 PM
Lee Byung Hun: Lee Min Jung is good at cooking Author: daiko KoreanVibe.com
Korean megastar, Lee Byung Hun, is definitely in love with his girlfriend, Lee Min Jung.
During the press conference event of his new movie Gwanghae (Masquerade) on September 3, he didn’t hesitate to praise his new girlfriend.
The 42-year-old actor said ,”Lee Min Jung prepared a homemade lunch box for me when I was on diet. Not only me, she also served the staffs who worked with me. Her food was delicious. I'm surprised to know that she’s good at cooking”.
He continue, ”She’s not only pretty but also smart. She’s the person who makes me laugh”.
ismaha posted on 5-9-2012 04:27 PM
katt...xsabo la nak tggu berita gembira dr BH n MJ......
lambat lagi kah diorg nak kawen ...
Kalau dah ditentukan jodoh mereka berdua.. tentu happening one day nanti
Sebelum tu kita tunggu dulu gambar mereka berdua.. kalau boleh sebelum BH start filming di overseas.. naklah tengok at least ada gambar berdua yang betul2 punya.
Tapi BH pergi pun bukan lama.. habis filming baliklah dia.. by the time Christmas kot. And LMJ pun boleh visit him in Europe or kat mana2 pun.. kan..