Project Y (directed by Lee Hwan) unveiled its bold, funky noir identity at the 30th Busan International Film Festival. Leading actresses Han So-hee and Jun Jong-seo are at the center, shaping the film's tone and visuals with their intense performances and trendsetting presence.

The cast joined an open talk with audiences at the Busan Cinema Center on September 18. Alongside Han and Jun, actors Kim Sung-cheol, Jung Young-joo, Lee Jae-kyun, and YooA of Oh My Girl also appeared.

A Gritty Story of Survival

The film follows Mi-seon (Han So-hee) and Do-kyung (Jun Jong-seo), who attempt to break free from rock-bottom realities by stealing hidden cash and gold. Their desperate journey highlights themes of survival, loyalty, and transformation. Invited to BIFF's Korean Cinema Today – Special Premiere section, the movie drew attention well before release thanks to the powerful pairing of the two leads.

Director Lee Hwan explained his casting choice: "Both are icons in their own right. I wanted to capture the collision when such figures express raw, animal-like emotions within a desperate reality."

Jun Jong-seo shared, "It's rare to find a female two-top film. I knew I had to do it, especially alongside Han. Together, I felt we could push the script far beyond the page."

Han So-hee & Jun Jong-seo's Dynamic Chemistry

Han described Mi-seon as a young woman living dual lives—running a flower shop by day and working nightlife jobs by night. "She felt like the grounded story of youth in today's times," Han said. "Her methods differ from Do-kyung's, but their goals are the same."

Jun added about Do-kyung: "She and Mi-seon are like family, having no one but each other. But after one incident, they suddenly shift into professionals."

Han elaborated on their bond: "It's the kind of relationship that breaks the idea of 'blood is thicker than water.' They share the same dreams, making them inseparable and complementary."

New Faces & Bold Transformations

YooA of Oh My Girl makes her acting debut, portraying a sharp, edgy character unlike her idol image. "I focused on her tense, piercing gaze," she said. "It was a big change, but I followed the director's guidance closely."

Kim Sung-cheol takes on the role of To-sajang, a character he called "the root of evil." He explained, "It was a challenge to bring enough energy to face off against the two leads."

A Funky Noir Vision

Unlike typical noir films, Lee Hwan wanted something different: "Traditional noir is often heavy and gloomy. But with Han and Jun's presence, I wanted a funky, neo-realistic noir instead."

Project Y continues its screenings at the 30th Busan International Film Festival, running through September 26.