Hoyeon's Breakout Role in Sci-Fi Blockbuster 'Hope'
From Squid Game to leading action heroine - how Hoyeon prepared for her career-defining role.
1Hope's Record-Breaking Potential
Despite mixed critical reception at Cannes, Hope is poised to become a word-of-mouth phenomenon. With a €30 million budget (the highest for any South Korean film), it features breathtaking action sequences and comedic moments. The film marks a significant milestone in Korean cinema, receiving the widest U.S. theatrical release since Parasite. Much of its success is attributed to Hoyeon's standout performance as rookie officer Sung-ae.
2Hoyeon's Instant Connection to the Role
After a casual first meeting with director Na Hong-jin (known for The Wailing), Hoyeon was immediately offered the role without discussing script details. Na saw qualities in her that matched the character. Hoyeon was so certain about the role that she manifested her casting by writing her name under the title immediately after receiving the script. This marked her transition from Squid Game fame to leading film actress.
3Preparing for Sci-Fi Stardom
To prepare for her first action role, Hoyeon immersed herself in sci-fi classics, particularly the Alien franchise. Her focus wasn't on mimicking Sigourney Weaver's performance, but understanding the emotional reality of encountering the unknown. Director Na also recommended the 1999 Japanese film Dr. Akagi for its balance of serious themes and absurdist comedy, similar to Hope's tone.
4Physical Transformation Challenges
The role required Hoyeon to master new skills including gun handling and manual transmission driving - neither of which she had experience with. Unlike her physically demanding but simpler stunts in Squid Game, Hope demanded precise technical execution. She obtained a manual driving license specifically for the film, calling it one of her proudest achievements during production.
5Daytime Creature Feature Innovation
Hope breaks convention by showcasing its alien creatures primarily in daylight scenes rather than darkness. This technical challenge required more detailed creature design and lighting. The entire cast performed their own stunts, with many sequences being career firsts for Hoyeon. The film's practical effects approach sets it apart from typical CGI-heavy blockbusters.
6From Model to Action Star
Hoyeon's background as a model and her breakout in Squid Game didn't fully prepare her for Hope's physical demands. She drew on her natural energy and comedic timing to bring Sung-ae to life. The character's rambunctious personality aligned with Hoyeon's own traits, allowing her to inhabit the role authentically while pushing her physical limits.
7Cultural Impact of Korean Cinema
Hope continues South Korea's streak of high-quality genre films following Parasite's global success. The film blends horror, comedy and action while maintaining distinctly Korean storytelling sensibilities. Hoyeon's casting represents a new generation of Korean actors crossing over from television to international film recognition.
8A Career-Defining Performance
Hoyeon's performance in Hope establishes her as a versatile leading actress capable of both dramatic depth and physical action. Her preparation process demonstrates a professional dedication that suggests long-term staying power in the industry. The film marks a significant evolution from her Squid Game role, proving her ability to carry a major blockbuster.
Original article: Gizmodo — Hoyeon's Breakout Role in Sci-Fi Blockbuster 'Hope'