Kim Hye-ja Cancels Stage Greeting Ahead of New Film Release
Veteran South Korean actress Kim Hye-ja abruptly canceled her scheduled stage greeting ahead of the press preview for her upcoming film Still Radiant on October 15, 2025, according to a report by mt.co.kr. The cancellation was announced approximately an hour before the 2:00 PM media event at a local theater, though the film screening and subsequent press conference proceeded as planned alongside director Song Il-gon.
Health Scrutiny Follows Busan Appearance
The eleventh-hour schedule change follows widespread media attention regarding the 84-year-old actress’s physical condition at the 31st Busan International Film Festival on October 6, 2025. Walking the red carpet alongside director Song Il-gon, Kim appeared to require assistance moving and was observed coughing into her hand multiple times, prompting public speculation about her health. Representatives for the production previously attributed those symptoms to a mild cold and stated that her festival itinerary had been carefully structured around her age and daily condition.
Upcoming Theatrical Release and Return to Screen
Still Radiant marks Kim’s first feature film appearance in nine years. The narrative follows a character named Soon-ok, who reunites with a lifelong childhood friend sixty years after sharing their most formative years together. The film is scheduled to hit South Korean theaters nationwide on October 21, 2025. Representatives for the project have not specified whether the sudden withdrawal from the pre-screening stage greeting is connected to ongoing concerns about the lead actress’s health.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Film Release
When does Still Radiant officially open in theaters?
The film is scheduled for a theatrical release across South Korea on October 21, 2025.
What is the plot of Kim Hye-ja’s new movie?
The story centers on Soon-ok, an elderly woman who crosses paths with her closest childhood friend six decades after they spent their youth together.