Japanese actor Ninomiya Kazunari captivated fans in Busan as he shared his journey with his latest film, Exit 8, a project that pushes him into new territory both as a performer and creator.

First Japanese Actor Invited to Actor's House

Ninomiya appeared at "Actor's House" on September 19 at Sohyang Theater in Haeundae, Busan. The venue was filled with fans who had supported him for over a decade, many of them responding instantly to his Japanese before translation even began. "Being the first Japanese actor invited comes with pressure," Ninomiya admitted, "but I thought this event was even bigger than introducing a film, so I came to Korea with that mindset."

Exit 8: A Game-Like Thriller

Exit 8 is featured in the Midnight Passion section of the 30th Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), after gaining recognition earlier in May at the 78th Cannes Film Festival's Midnight Screening. The story follows a man trapped in a looping underground passage as he searches desperately for Exit 8. Ninomiya carries most of the screen time alone. "I've never acted this much by myself before," he said. "It was a challenge I wanted to take on."

The film is based on a minimalistic game. "The original has almost no storyline—just moving forward or turning back," Ninomiya explained. "I was curious to see how far such a simple idea could be developed into a film."

Minimal Acting in a Limited Space

Ninomiya also participated in the production from the script stage, believing his involvement was essential to bridge the gap between page and set. "Since the story unfolds almost entirely alone, I felt the script wouldn't fully match what happens on set. I wanted to minimize that gap," he said.

Though the film belongs to the horror-thriller genre, Ninomiya approached it with restraint. "The set was a confined underground passage, with very few cast members. Rather than exaggerating reactions, I aimed for subtle, minimal expression—like seasoning food with just salt and pepper," he explained.

Reflecting on His Acting Journey

The event also revisited highlights of his filmography, including The Garden of Women and The Asadas. Ninomiya reflected on how his mindset has shifted since his early days balancing acting with his idol career in Arashi. "Back then, I wondered whether people wanted my acting for my skills, for the fanbase I brought, or for promotion. Now I approach it thinking I can handle all of that."

For him, the most important measure of good acting is silence from the director. "If the director can't say anything for three or four seconds after a scene, it means I made them accept that this was the right choice," he said.

Hopes for Korea and Beyond

Ninomiya expressed his desire to deepen his connection with Korean audiences. "It was my dream to have my work evaluated on a global stage. I'm so happy Exit 8 is screening at BIFF where Korean viewers can see it. I think it's my turn to come here now," he said.

He ended with a promise to fans: "During Arashi days, you came to see us, but from now on, I want to take the initiative. Please make your voices heard—maybe then I can appear in your living rooms through Korean projects. I'll do my best, so please support me."