The VIP premiere of the highly anticipated Korean film Harbin attracted some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry. Held just days before the film’s theatrical release on December 25, 2024, the premiere witnessed the presence of Seo Ye-jin (Crash Landing on You), Kim Soo-hyun (Queen of Tears), Song Joong-ki (My Name is Loh Kiwan), and more.
Directed by Woo Min-ho, Harbin is a historical spy thriller that delves into Korea's fight for independence in 1909, centering on Ahn Jung-geun, the activist who assassinated Japanese Prime Minister Itō Hirobumi.
Hyun Bin, who portrays Ahn Jung-geun in the film, attended the premiere alongside his wife, actress Son Ye-jin. This marked one of their rare public appearances as a couple since their marriage in 2022. Harbin's other lead stars such as Lee Dong-wook, Jeon Yeo-been, and Jo Woo-jin, graced the red carpet.
Meanwhile, the red carpet was graced by a leading cast and other big South Korean celebrities, including:
- Hyun Bin
- Lee Dong-wook
- Kim Soo-hyun
- Song Joong-ki
- Jo Woo-jin
- Jeon Yeo-been
- Park Hoon
- Yoo Jae-myung
- Son Ye-jin
- Nam Goong-min
- Seo Hyun-woo
- Yeom Jeong-ah
- Im Soo-jung
- Ahn Hyo-seop
- Lee Kwang-soo
- Song Seung-heon
Hyun Bin and Lee Dong Wook’s upcoming movie Harbin
Set against the backdrop of Japanese-occupied Korea, Harbin follows the lives of resistance fighters who risk everything to fight for freedom. Hyun Bin leads the cast as Ahn Jung-geun, a passionate revolutionary who strategizes a high-stakes assassination of Itō Hirobumi.
Lee Dong-wook portrays Lee Chang-seop, a covert operative, while Jeon Yeo-been takes on the role of Madam Gong, an arms dealer with a mysterious past. Park Jung-min and Jo Woo-jin also shine in critical supporting roles.
Harbin received its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in September 2024, where critics praised its high-octane action, compelling storytelling, and strong performances. Hyun Bin’s portrayal of Ahn Jung-geun has been hailed as a career-defining role.
Hyun Bin and Lee Dong-wook have been busy with high-profile projects in recent years. Hyun Bin starred in the 2022 film Confidential Assignment 2: International and the Netflix original The Point Men (2023). His K-drama, Crash Landing on You, with Seo Ye-jin (also his wife), is still considered one of his pivotal projects.
Meanwhile, Lee Dong-wook captivated audiences with his lead role in Tale of the Nine-Tailed: 1938, the 2023 sequel to the popular fantasy series Tale of the Nine-Tailed. His upcoming K-drama, Divorce Insurance, opposite Lee Da-hee, will be released somewhere in 2025.
Harbin tells a historical story centered on themes of sacrifice, patriotism, and resilience. With its focus on espionage and detailed sets, the film creates an atmosphere aimed at engaging a global audience.