Director Kim Do-young is adapting the hit 2015 comedy-drama The Intern for Korean audiences, pairing veteran actor Choi Min-shik with rising star Han So-hee. The Korean remake explores workplace dynamics and generational labels in a modern corporate setting, drawing on Choi’s decades of screen experience alongside Han’s intense commitment to her role.
The Korean adaptation of The Intern centers on Sun-woo, played by Han So-hee, a fast-rising figure in the fashion industry whose company welcomes a 37-year-old senior intern named Gi-ho, portrayed by Choi Min-shik, according to an interview with director Kim Do-young published by Sports Kyunghyang. The original 2015 film, which drew 3.61 million moviegoers in South Korea, created high expectations for the local reimagining.
Directorial Vision and Overcoming Original Film Comparisons
Director Kim Do-young admitted hesitation when first approached with the project due to the strong cultural imprint left by the original release. However, the presence of veteran actor Choi Min-shik on the cast list convinced the director to accept the job, aiming to observe and work alongside the esteemed performer firsthand. Rather than attempting a complete departure from the source material, Kim focused on grounding the narrative in local language and Korean social contexts, receiving encouragement from original director Nancy Meyers during production.
Character Dynamics Between Choi Min-shik and Han So-hee
The casting brings together two distinct generations of Korean cinema, creating an on-screen partnership that bridges decades of acting experience. Kim praised Choi Min-shik for projecting natural authority and warmth derived from a lifetime of film work, making his character Gi-ho a grounding force for younger colleagues.
At the same time, Kim commended Han So-hee for her fearlessness and stamina on set. According to the director, Han prepared meticulously for every scene and maintained artistic freedom and composure while performing opposite a veteran actor of Choi’s stature.
Defining the Modern Mentor
The core theme of the remake revolves around defining what constitutes a positive adult influence in a high-pressure professional environment. Director Kim Do-young noted that a supportive mentor is not someone who simply agrees with everyone to keep the peace, but rather a figure who offers genuine encouragement and constructive feedback while respecting professional boundaries.
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