Actor Jung Il Woo is making a heartfelt return with a story that transcends borders — one rooted in family, sacrifice, and love.

The Korean–Vietnamese co-production Leaving My Mother (directed by Mo Hong Jin) follows a son caring for his mother with dementia, a struggling family, and the quiet heartbreaks that connect them. Jung Il Woo joined the film without pay, moved by the script's emotional depth.

"I wanted to do this project regardless of compensation," he shared at the film's press screening held at CGV Yongsan on October 29. "It's such a beautiful story, and I was deeply touched by the warmth I felt in Vietnam."

A Collaboration Beyond Language

In the film, Jung Il Woo plays Jung Min — the ex-husband of the mother suffering from dementia, appearing in flashbacks as a caring father and a loving partner. Though his screen time is short, his presence leaves a strong emotional mark.

Director Mo Hong Jin praised the actor's sincerity: "Jung Il Woo is very popular in Vietnam. I worried whether he would accept the role, but he agreed without any hesitation or payment. I was deeply grateful."

The cast includes Vietnamese stars Tuan Tran, known for the box office hit MAI, and Hong Dao, affectionately called "the People's Mother" in Vietnam. Their performances capture the pain and tenderness of a mother losing her memory and a son desperately trying to stay by her side.

When Family Speaks the Same Language of the Heart

Despite the bilingual setting — featuring both Korean and Vietnamese dialogue — communication flowed naturally on set. "The only language that needs no translation is the language of the heart," said Director Mo. "Family means the same thing everywhere."

Jung Il Woo, who portrays a husband to Vietnamese actress Juliette Bao Ngoc, recalled the challenge of performing across languages. "I learned a lot of Vietnamese, and she learned Korean," he said with a smile. "We connected through love, not words."

Warm Reception in Vietnam

Leaving My Mother became a surprise box office hit in Vietnam, surpassing its break-even point within three days of release and reaching over two million viewers by the third week.

Jung Il Woo reflected, "I had wonderful memories from my trip to Vietnam, and I always hoped to return as an actor. I'm thankful that it happened through such a meaningful film." Laughing, he added, "After High Kick, I was known as Vietnam's son — now, I've become their son-in-law."

He concluded, "This movie reminds us how precious family is. It's a warm, emotional story to share with loved ones. I hope many people watch and feel its message."

The film Leaving My Mother will be released in Korea on November 5.