The production team for the short film Dana-a-byeol (working title) is currently seeking two lead actors for a one-day shoot scheduled for November 8, 2026. The project, which explores themes of maternal sacrifice and the complex bond between a mother and her young son, is casting for the roles of Eun-jeong and Haru.
Casting Requirements for Lead Roles
The production is looking for two performers to anchor the 10-to-15-minute narrative. According to the casting call posted on Filmmakers Korea, the requirements for the roles are as follows:
- Eun-jeong (Female, 32): The character is a single mother working in a restaurant to support her son, who suffers from a rare disease. Actors should be capable of portraying the contrast between her public persona—bright and resilient—and the internal anxiety she hides when alone.
- Haru (Male, 9): The character is an imaginative nine-year-old who attends school remotely due to his health condition. The role requires an actor who can convey the innocence and loneliness of a child who discovers his mother’s financial struggles and attempts to resolve them through a secret plan.
Production and Compensation Details
The film is set for a single day of shooting on November 8, 2026, at an indoor location in Seoul. The production will provide meals for the cast. The compensation for each role is set at 100,000 KRW per session. The filmmakers noted that transportation costs are included within the provided fee, though the production will offer a small transportation stipend for actors invited to attend the in-person audition.
Submission Process for Applicants
Interested actors are instructed to submit their materials via email to ahnc523523@gmail.com. Applicants must include a professional profile, portfolio, and an acting reel that clearly demonstrates vocal and emotional range. The subject line of the email should follow the format: [Dana-a-byeol] Role Applied For_Name_Birth Year.
The production team will contact selected candidates individually to schedule auditions. While the project is being managed independently, platforms like Megaphone Korea—which facilitates casting processes for student and independent films—often serve as hubs for such talent searches, emphasizing the need for organized digital profiles in the current independent film environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the central plot of the film?
The story follows Haru, a boy with a rare disease, who discovers his mother’s financial burden after finding search records on her phone. Inspired by a story about a "Dana-a-byeol" (a star where the sick go to be healed), the boy begins a secret mission to help his mother.
Are there specific requirements for the audition materials?
Yes, applicants must provide a video that allows the production team to identify their voice and acting style. A contactable mobile number must be included in the submission email to receive updates regarding audition times and locations.
How will the production notify successful applicants?
The production team will review all submitted profiles and contact only those whose image and experience align with the characters via the contact information provided in the initial email.