Scheduled for release on May 30, “Guitar Man” is a musical film that follows the journey, loss and love of a genius guitarist who tries to find hope through music amidst harsh realities.
On the morning of May 21, a press screening for the film Guitar Man was held at Lotte Cinema World Tower Hall 20 in Songpa-gu, Seoul. Actress and director Lee Sun-jung and director Kim Jong-myeon attended the media event.
Recalling her time working with the late Kim Sae-ron, Lee Sun-jung shared, “While working on the project, I had to keep looking at Sae-ron’s face. That was really difficult for me. She even appeared in my dreams—that was the hardest part.” She continued, “She should have been here today, sitting beside me and sharing this moment. I feel ashamed and sorry for being here alone. I cried while watching the film, and even after seeing it a thousand times during editing, Sae-ron’s story still feels deeply heartbreaking.”
She added, “At the time of casting, another actor had almost been selected. When the idea of meeting Kim Sae-ron one last time was suggested, there were certainly some reservations. We were worried that even if we filmed the movie, it might never be released. There were people who discouraged it, saying that if her issues weren’t resolved, the film could end up being buried and never see the light of day.”
When asked why she decided to cast the late Kim Sae-ron, Lee Sun-jung explained, “During our meeting, Sae-ron showed a lot of passion for the film. That really moved me. It was heartbreaking, because she was someone who could have starred in much bigger projects, yet she was showing such dedication to mine. I was worried, of course, but I decided to push forward. Her passion and that bright smile during our meeting made me stick to my convictions.”
Previously, on April 28, the production team of the film “Guitar Man” released the music video for its main OST track, “A World Without Pain.” The song was written, composed, and even performed by Lee Sun-jung, who also co-directed and produced the film.
“Guitar Man” is the final work of late actress Kim Sae-ron, who passed away in February at the age of 25. The film tells the story of a genius guitarist who joins an underground band named Volcano. Kim Sae-ron portrays Yoo-jin, the film’s female lead.
In the newly released music video, Kim Sae-ron is seen smiling warmly and showcasing emotional depth with a moving tearful performance, highlighting her commitment and talent until the end.
The movie was entirely overseen by Lee Sun-jung, CEO of Sungwon Pharm, who also leads the music group “Lee Sun-jung Band.” She invested in, produced, directed, and acted in the project.
Speaking about Kim Sae-ron, Director Lee shared, “She brought so much bright energy and passion to the set. I truly hoped for her to make a grand comeback. I wish she finds happiness in a world without pain, just like the title of the OST.”
Director Lee also announced that all proceeds from the “Guitar Man” OST will be donated to the Korea Suicide Prevention Center.
Kim Sae-ron debuted as a child model in 2001 and later transitioned to acting, gaining acclaim with her performance in the 2009 film A Brand New Life and rising to stardom with the 2010 blockbuster The Man from Nowhere.
Over her career, she appeared in numerous films and dramas, including I Am a Dad, The Neighbor, Barbie, A Girl at My Door, Manhole, Snowy Road, The Villagers, and TV series like Can You Hear My Heart, The Queen’s Classroom, High School: Love On, Glamorous Temptation, Mirror of the Witch, Leverage, and The Great Shaman Ga Doo-shim.
The OST “A World Without Pain” is now available on major music platforms, and the film “Guitar Man” is scheduled for theatrical release at the end of May.