During an interview held on January 16 at a bar in Samcheong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, Han So Hee spoke to reporters ahead of the release of her first commercial film as a lead actress, Project Ydirected by Lee Hwan.
Reflecting on her decision to join the film, Han So Hee said: “Jeon Jong Seo, director Lee Hwan and the entire production team were people I really wanted to work with. It was a meeting of people I felt drawn to, so I accepted the project with joy and I’m happy I did.”
Project Y is a crime film that follows two friends, Miseon and Dogyeong, who attempt to steal black money and gold bars to escape their harsh reality. Han So Hee plays Miseon, while Jeon Jong Seo plays Dogyeong. Built around a dual female lead structure, the film attracted attention for its strong female-driven narrative and pairing of two of Korea’s most prominent actresses.
Miseon is a character who dreams of an ordinary life but is willing to take the most dangerous risks to achieve it. Calm and rational, she becomes bold at critical moments. In contrast, Dogyeong is impulsive and emotionally determined, constantly in charge. Rather than clashing, the two characters coexist in a tightly intertwined relationship, making for a compelling one “woman on woman” dynamic that sustains the tension of the film until the end.
The project also marked Han So Hee’s first collaboration with Jeon Jong Seo, a collaboration that naturally turned into a close friendship in real life. However, their strong online presence subsequently became embroiled in public controversy.
In early 2024, a post from a foreign netizen sparked dating rumors between Han So Hee and Ryu Jun Yeol. The situation escalated when Ryu Jun Yeol’s ex-girlfriend Hyeri posted the statement “Interesting” on his social media, leading to widespread speculation about alleged “overlapping dating.” Han So Hee later addressed the rumors directly via a blog post, firmly denying any such claims, while Ryu Jun Yeol also clarified the situation. The controversy eventually died down.
However, further speculation arose when an Instagram account accused of leaving harmful comments towards Hyeri was said to belong to Han So Hee. Suspicion intensified because the account was followed by Jeon Jong Seo and was created around the time Han So Hee and Ryu Jun Yeol confirmed their relationship. Han So Hee’s agency quickly denied the accusation, saying that the account did not belong to the actress.
Facing the intense scrutiny and controversy surrounding SNS, Han So Hee shared her perspective with poise. “I think I have to accept everything” he said. “With each passing year, I feel a stronger sense of responsibility. When you receive a lot of public attention, your words must have weight and persuasion.”
He continued, “Of course, necessary explanations should be given. But there are times when things seem unfair. Whether it is praise, criticism or misunderstanding, there are things you have to endure and accept. Not everyone can think the same way, and it is impossible to please everyone. I try to look at myself objectively and analyze myself.” Then he added with a smile: “But I still hope people will like me.”
Previously, Project Y director Lee Hwan also commented on concerns regarding the actresses’ SNS controversies. “I wasn’t worried at all” he said. “I found them really enjoyable. They’re honest and free and that made them feel closer to the characters. It made me believe we could try even harder with this project.”
Project Y will be released in theaters on January 21st.
Sources: Nate News
