On April 23, Byun Young Joo appeared on the YouTube channel “Cine Drive” in the segment “Riding with Bang Eun Jin,” where he revisited his experience working on the 2012 film Helpless. Reflecting on his bond with Lee Sun Kyun, he said that although there are many actors, it is rare to find someone who wants to “I’m on your side” as a director. He pointed out that Lee was one of those rare actors, adding that losing him was not just the loss of an artist, but the loss of a true comrade for Korean filmmakers.
He continued to share behind-the-scenes stories from filming. Due to the limited budget and time, the production schedule was extremely tight. Even on the last day of filming he had to make difficult demands. He remembered how Lee Sun Kyun responded asking for just 15 minutes, saying he could adjust his movements even if his emotions changed. Remembering the moments after filming ended, credited the dedication of actors such as Kim Min Hee and Jo Sung Ha, along with Lee Sun Kyun, for making the film possible.
Byun also revealed an anecdote involving Japanese author Miyabe Miyuki, the original writer behind it Helpless. He shared it Miyuki had expressed great affection for the film and even wanted to offer another novel, The reasonfor the adaptation starring Lee Sun Kyun. However, circumstances prevented such collaboration from taking place. Later, an editor visited Lee’s resting place and approached Byun again, asking her to adapt the novel—a connection that she said stemmed from their shared work Helpless.
In particular, Byun expressed strong frustration with the investigation process surrounding Lee Sun Kyun’s death. She stated it he still cannot forgive the prosecution and the police, adding that he may never be able to do so in his entire life.
Lee Sun Kyun died in December 2023 while under police investigation for alleged violations of drug laws. After his death, the cultural and artistic community expressed concern about excessive investigative practices and media exposure. Notably, director Bong Joon Ho and over 2,000 artists released a joint statement calling for institutional reforms.
Sources: Daum
