In Pachinko, we watch your character Sunja grow up, experience love and heartbreak, leave the only home she’s ever known, become a mother, and find independence in a foreign land. How did you prepare for such a rich character role?
First, I had my history to learn. I read books and watched documentaries to learn the history of that period, not just in Korea, but across the globe. Talking to my 94 year-old grandmother and listening to her stories was what helped me the most. She was there at that time and understood exactly what was happening. Sunja really suffered the same fate. While I was researching, it was all just about facts. However, my grandmother was more emotional. My grandmother is a master storyteller.
Have you ever viewed? Pachinko With her?
But she doesn’t yet call me, but she calls me every episode and she can’t stop crying.
What was your favourite scene to film?
There were many scenes I loved, but I particularly liked the scenes set in the boardinghouse, especially when I said goodbye my mother and all the boarders. All of my emotion came from my heart while I was shooting that scene. I felt like I was saying goodbye, to my mom, siblings, family, and those I love. Sunja’s mom is her everything, and I was thinking of my own mom. Sunja and my mom are the same. Back then, there were no iPhones—if you said goodbye to someone, you never knew when you were going to see them again. I didn’t want to fake anything and was just really honest with my emotions in that scene.
What are the most meaningful ways you can relate to Sunja?
Sunja has two sides to her—she’s both delicate and very sturdy. Sunja and I were both affected by this disposition.
Did you have a particular scene that made it the most nerve-wracking to film?
I was nervous to film the childbirth scene, because that’s something that I’ve never experienced before. Even though I watched a lot of videos and talked to my mother and grandmother, I couldn’t imagine how painful it was.
What was it like to wear traditional Korean costumes?
The costumes were really comfortable—they were easy and quick to put on, and really pretty. I loved the color. I actually asked if they could stay with me, so I have two. I haven’t worn them since, but I love seeing them in my closet and reminiscing.
What was your favorite snack?
Every morning, I had to have a hot, dark cup of coffee. I loved McDonalds coffee. We shot in the morning so it helped me get up. I was known on set as the girl who loved jelly beans. I love candy, so every time I was on a break I’d eat them. The green apple flavor is my favourite.
Source: Glamour
