INTERVIEW WITH THE CAST AND CREW OF DARK NUNS

Director KWON Hyeok-jae

Q1. What attracted you to direct DARK NUNS? Could you share the research process you undertook for authenticity during production?

I had a strong trust in the production company, ZIP CINEMA, which had been developing the story for a long time. Being a fan of THE PRIESTS, I was captivated by the script, reading it all in one go. The script had multiple layers and well-developed characters, which drew me in. I aimed to stay faithful to the screenplay while focusing on the drama to create a unique perspective. For research, I sought advice from nuns, asking them about their mindset not only during Catholic funerals but also at non-religious ceremonies. I even visited a local church on a rainy day, seeking further guidance. The nuns emphasized that the ‘heart’ was the most important aspect. We maintained accuracy with prayer texts, though some parts were adjusted for cinematic emphasis.

Q2. How was the atmosphere during filming? How did you and the cast collaborate to maximize their performances?

I made an effort to listen to input from the production company, screenwriter, and the cast during the pre-production phase. The actors also spent significant time discussing and contemplating their characters together. Since we had such experienced crew members on board, we were able to create a strong synergy. The mood of each scene was often shaped by lighting and framing choices, with much thought put into the film’s mise-en-scène. Working with Music Director Kim Tae-seong was a great honor. He helped elevate the emotional intensity in scenes involving prayers and chants, adding both realism and depth. I'm truly grateful to everyone who contributed to making this film a reality.

Q3. Why is DARK NUNS a film that must be experienced in theaters? And do you have any words for international audiences? In what ways does DARK NUNS distinguish itself as a Korean occult film compared to other international occult stories?

DARK NUNS uniquely blends elements such as Catholic exorcism rituals, Korean shamanism, and tarot readings, offering a fresh take on the genre. The powerful performances of the actors are best experienced on the big screen, where audiences can fully immerse themselves in the chills and thrills. With every visual meticulously crafted by a team of top-tier professionals, the true impact of the film can only be felt in theaters. I hope international audiences will see for themselves the allure of a Korean-style occult drama.

SONG Hye-kyo

Q1. How did you prepare for the complex role of Sister Giunia? Did you conduct any research or engage in specific acting exercises?

From the moment I read the script, I was captivated by its unique story and drawn to the fascinating character of Giunia. I focused on understanding her inner thoughts and beliefs, particularly her commitment to saving a life and the bond she forms with another woman to achieve that goal. In the story, Sister Giunia is portrayed as a disciple of Father Kim from THE PRIESTS. There’s often a natural process of learning that occurs between a mentor and student simply by being around one another, so I rewatched THE PRIESTS. However, I didn’t consciously channel that film while shooting DARK NUNS because I felt the core of my character lay in her relationship with Sister Michela. Interestingly, I also spent six months practicing smoking for the role. Since I’m a non-smoker, I wanted to ensure the scenes looked realistic. While I no longer smoke, it was important to perfect that aspect of Giunia’s character, as she deviates from the typical image of a nun.

Q2. It’s been said that you practiced your prayer and chant lines constantly in daily life. Did you experience any difficulties or mistakes during filming? How long did it usually take to shoot those scenes?

I had to not only recite the prayers but also convey deep emotion at the same time. If I made a mistake and had to stop mid-line, it could be difficult to get the emotional intensity back. So I aimed to shoot those scenes in one take. There was no shortcut—I had to live with the script, constantly practicing and internalizing the lines.

Q3. What was the atmosphere like during filming? And what factors are most important to you when choosing a role or script? DARK NUNS marks your return to the big screen after a long hiatus. What made you choose this role?

When I read the script, I was excited by the challenge it presented and wondered if it might reveal new sides of myself as an actor. I was particularly drawn to the way characters with differing beliefs come together, uniting under a shared purpose to save a child. For me, the most important factor in choosing a project is whether the script is truly engaging. The atmosphere on set was great. I had many conversations with the other actors, and from the script reading sessions onward, I felt a sense of excitement. There were thrilling moments during filming, and I was often amazed by the creative choices my co-stars made to bring their characters to life.

Q4. Were there any fun or memorable moments on set? Could you share a behind-the-scenes story?

Wearing the nun's habit was an interesting experience. It helped streamline the preparation process since once the veil was on, there wasn’t much else to do. It only took about 20 minutes to get ready! But once I wore the habit, I noticed my mindset shifted—I naturally felt more composed and reflective.

Q5. Many international fans are eagerly anticipating the film. Do you have a message for them?

I'm curious and excited to see how fans will respond to this new side of me. I sincerely hope you enjoy the film and would be incredibly grateful for your support. Thank you!

JEON Yeo-been

Q1. Sister Michela is a psychiatrist who believes in science but also performs exorcisms, making her a character with dual sides. How did you prepare for this role?

I could feel Michela's backstory through the script. I imagined that, as someone following the teachings of Father Paolo—who scientifically denies the existence of exorcisms—Michela would have lived suppressing her ability to see spirits. However, since her problems remained unresolved, I felt she might have turned to tarot cards for answers. The irony of a nun using tarot cards struck me as a defining image of her character. Although she appears cold, logical, and rational, I sensed that she had things she wanted to hide. Michela is a character who begins to grow after meeting Giunia, facing truths she can no longer ignore.

Q2. It’s said that you memorized Latin prayers by repeating them like rap lyrics. Could you elaborate on this unique method?

In the exorcism scenes, I had to repeat Latin phrases from beginning to end. Fortunately, since Michela is a novice at exorcism, I didn’t need to deliver the Latin lines perfectly, like a native speaker. It was enough to convey someone driven by willpower, reciting the prayers with urgency. I wanted the audience to feel the life-saving intensity behind those words. So, I memorized the lines as if I were learning rap lyrics, practicing until they would flow naturally. It wasn’t easy, but other actors had already set a high bar. Park So-dam was incredible in THE PRIESTS, and the youngest actor in DARK NUNS, Woo-jin, did an amazing job. I didn’t want to fall behind, so I worked hard to prepare as well.

Q3. How did you collaborate with Song Hye-kyo to create the chemistry and tension between your characters? What was the atmosphere like during filming?

Being able to look into Song Hye-kyo’s eyes and hear her voice on set felt like a dream. Her eyes carried a lyrical depth, and despite her petite frame, she stood like a strong, silent pillar on set. Though Michela and Giunia are different in nature, I felt the same powerful presence from both. There were moments when I was deeply moved and leaned on her emotionally. Watching her, I found myself hoping to become a senior actor like her one day.

Q4. It’s been said that you and Song Hye-kyo experienced something supernatural during filming. How did you handle that? Did you engage in any special rituals or research spooky stories before shooting?

I remember one night at the accommodation. I felt as though someone was watching me while I was trying to sleep, so I ended up going to the living room. It was a strange experience.

Q5. Everyone has a horror movie that left a lasting impression. Was there a film that truly scared you as a child, and did it influence you as an actor?

I’ve always found occult films terrifying. I can never watch them alone in the theater—I always need friends with me. Despite this fear, I felt a strong desire to be part of DARK NUNS. I thought that, as a creator, I might feel less afraid. This aspect of overcoming fear influenced how I portrayed Michela, a character who struggles with fear but eventually grows stronger.

Q6. Many international fans are eagerly anticipating the film. Do you have a message for them?

I believe DARK NUNS is a film you can enjoy with your family, friends, and colleagues. I hope the movie’s message about connection and solidarity resonates warmly with you. Thank you for your support!

LEE Jin-uk

Q1. Can you introduce your character in DARK NUNS?

I play Father Paolo, a priest who firmly believes he can medically treat a boy named Hee-joon.

Q2. In the film, there’s a divide between characters—Giunia, who believes in supernatural phenomena, and Father Paolo, who relies solely on medicine. If you were in a similar situation in real life, which side would you lean towards?

I think I would be closer to Father Paolo. Like him, I would trust in medicine and believe that treatment is possible through scientific means rather than supernatural causes.

Q3. How was your experience working with Song Hye-kyo, Jeon Yeo-been, and Moon Woo-jin? Were there any moments during filming when you were impressed by their performances?

They’re all incredibly talented actors. I had always wanted to collaborate with them, so I was thrilled to have this opportunity. Throughout the shoot, I was inspired by their deep immersion in their characters, which made filming both stimulating and enjoyable for me.

Q4. What initially drew you to DARK NUNS and made you decide to take the role?

The biggest appeal was the opportunity to work with excellent actors and a well-crafted script. The combination of those factors made it an easy choice for me.

Q5. Many international fans are eagerly anticipating the film. Do you have a message for them?

DARK NUNS is an occult drama about characters with different beliefs coming together for one shared goal—to save a child. I’d be truly grateful if you enjoyed the film. Thank you for your support!

MOON Woo-jin

Q1. As an actor, what was the most interesting or challenging part of immersing yourself in this story? How did it impact you?

I was drawn to the opportunity to play a possessed character suffering from demonic affliction. It's not a role that comes around often, so I felt grateful for the chance and challenged myself to give it my best. I approached the shoot with a strong determination to succeed.

Q2. To deepen your understanding of the character, did you do any research or watch other films before filming?

I referred to Park So-dam's performance in THE PRIESTS for inspiration. However, I also focused on giving Hee-joon a unique portrayal to show something new to the audience.

Q3. Do you have any fun or memorable behind-the-scenes stories from the set? Were there any special moments with your co-actors?

During the exorcism scene, there was a part where Giunia kept throwing holy water at me. The crew was worried I might get cold, so they wrapped me up in foil and even set up a heater over my head. It was a funny and heartwarming experience.

Q4. Many international fans are eagerly anticipating the film. Do you have a message for them?

DARK NUNS is an occult drama that all the actors worked on with a lot of passion. I hope you'll have a great time watching it in theaters when it’s released!

Q5. What kind of actor do you hope to become in the future? Are there any roles or genres you’d like to try next?

I want to be an actor who always gives his best. I plan to take on a variety of roles and projects, so please look forward to seeing more from me!

Q6. You're currently in high school. How were you able to balance filming DARK NUNS with your school life?

I think it was all about having the mindset to do things properly when I had the chance. That approach helped me achieve good results both on set and at school.