Top South Korean actress Jun Ji Hyun recently participated in an exclusive photo shoot and interview for the August issue of Harper’s BAZAAR Korea.
In her feature, the iconic star opened up about making her long-awaited return to cinema after an 11-year hiatus with the sci-fi thriller “Colony,” detailing how she approached her complex character, maintained positive energy on set, and cultivated a healthy mindset toward personal reflection and moving forward.
Humanizing Kwon Se Jung in the Sci-Fi Thriller “Colony”
Directed by Yeon Sang Ho- celebrated globally for hit films like “Train to Busan” and “Peninsula”- “Colony” tells the intense story of survivors trapped inside a blockaded building following the outbreak of a mysterious virus that mutates the infected into unpredictable, evolving forms.
Jun Ji Hyun plays professor Kwon Se Jung, a biotechnologist who steps up as the pragmatic leader of the surviving group.
Addressing her approach to playing such a high-stakes, heroic character, Jun Ji Hyun explained how she strove to ground the role in genuine human vulnerability rather than portraying an untouchable, emotionless hero:
“On the surface, she’s a righteous and strong person who shows leadership within her group.
But because she’s experiencing such an extreme situation for the first time herself, I believed it was only natural for her fear to show.”
She emphasized that authentic human reactions were central to her performance in every high-stress scene:
“So in every situation she faced, I focused on portraying the layers of emotion that any ordinary person would experience- surprise, confusion, fear, and terror.”
Her balanced performance has resonated deeply with moviegoers, helping drive “Colony” to massive commercial success as it rapidly surpassed major box office milestones following its theatrical debut.
Professionalism, On-Set Energy, and Letting Go of the Past
Beyond discussing her role in “Colony,” Jun Ji Hyun shared her perspective on maintaining a healthy work-life balance and fostering a collaborative environment during demanding film productions.
Rather than viewing professional responsibility solely as a personal effort, she described how positive team dynamics require mutual participation across the entire cast and crew:
“I don’t think a positive atmosphere on set can be created by just one person’s efforts.
It’s only when everyone involved brings positive energy that the overall mood truly brightens.”
She elaborated on her practical approach to creating that environment while filming:
“To help create that atmosphere, I stay fully engaged on every project and spend a lot of time communicating, laughing, and connecting with the director, staff, and fellow actors.”
For Jun Ji Hyun, true professionalism extends beyond performance on set to how an actor recovers after the camera stops rolling:
“Knowing how to take time to care for myself after filming wraps is what I consider ‘professionalism.’”
When asked how she developed her ability to let go of past difficulties and avoid dwelling on negative experiences, the actress attributed her resilience to life experience and self-awareness:
“It came naturally as I experienced countless situations, met various people, and faced unexpected circumstances while working and going about my daily life.”
She noted how she prevents burnout from taking over during hectic schedules:
“Even when I become exhausted from living such a busy life, I think I’ve become someone who knows not to get consumed by those emotions.”
In concluding her reflection, Jun Ji Hyun outlined her personal philosophy on self-care and maintaining emotional balance:
“I try not to waste my time, but I also make sure never to forget to take time to truly reflect on and care for myself.
By continuing to face myself honestly, I’ve reached a point where, even during difficult moments, I don’t fall too deeply into that emotional cave or stay there for too long.”
Her full pictorial and interview are featured in the August issue of Harper’s BAZAAR Korea.
