The Korean version of You Are the Apple of My Eye held its gala premiere at Epicentrum XXI, South Jakarta, on Monday, February 10, 2025. The event was special as Indonesia was chosen as the first country outside South Korea to host the gala premiere.
The decision to choose Indonesia was not without reason. In addition to having an incredible fanbase, the production team also admires the quality of the film industry in Indonesia. Producer Song Dae Chan even expressed his admiration for the 2002 film Ada Apa Dengan Cinta? (AADC), which he believes became an iconic film for young people at the time.
“I know many great producers and directors in Indonesia,” said Song Dae Chan during the press conference. “I also know about the film from 2002, Ada Apa Dengan Cinta?, which was very popular among young people. Coincidentally, our film’s setting is also in the year 2002,” he continued.
Furthermore, the director of the Korean version of You Are the Apple of My Eye, Young Myoung Cho, also praised Indonesian filmmakers. He mentioned two big names, Joko Anwar and Hanung Bramantyo, who he believes have brought Indonesian cinema to an international level.
“Indonesia has many great directors, like Joko Anwar and Hanung Bramantyo,” said Young Myoung Cho. “Even though the countries are different, emotionally and atmospherically, Korea and Indonesia are very similar. I believe Indonesian film fans will enjoy the emotional tone presented in this film,” he added.
Dahyun’s Return to Jakarta
Dahyun mentioned that after arriving in Jakarta, she immediately tried Indonesian cuisine. “As soon as I landed, I ate mie goreng and nasi goreng,” said the 1998-born idol.
She shared her positive impression of Indonesia, stating that the people are always smiling and that she has a great image of Indonesia due to the warm welcome. “I have a great image of Indonesia because the people are very friendly,” she said.
During the press conference, Dahyun greeted the audience with a cheerful, “Apa kabar? Aku Dahyun, mantap!” while giving a thumbs up. Although Dahyun had visited Jakarta many times as a K-pop idol, this was her first time visiting as an actress, considering this film is her acting debut.
Dahyun’s Approach to Her Character
In the press conference held in the Kuningan area of South Jakarta, Dahyun revealed that she intentionally refrained from watching the original film again after receiving the script.
“I had watched the original work before. But since I received the script for this film, I tried not to watch it again,” said Dahyun. This decision was made so she could build her own interpretation of the character Seon Ah, without being overly influenced by the original version.
“I wanted to try adding my own take on the character. I also thought a lot about why Seon Ah could be like that, what she likes and dislikes, and how she reacts in different situations. So, I really delved into this character,” she explained.
A First Love Story Full of Emotions
The Korean version of You Are the Apple of My Eye tells the story of the first love between Jin Woo (Jung Jin Young) and Seon Ah (Dahyun TWICE). Jin Woo is portrayed as a rebellious high school student who often causes trouble, while Seon Ah is a smart and popular model student.
Despite their contrasting personalities, their relationship develops with unique dynamics filled with emotion, nostalgia, and the warmth of first love. This film is expected to offer a new experience for viewers, whether they have seen the original version or are encountering the story for the first time.
About the Film
You Are the Apple of My Eye (Korean version) is a remake of the popular 2011 Taiwanese film. It follows the journey of first love between Jin Woo (Jung Jin Young) and Seon Ah (Dahyun). Although they have opposing personalities, their bond grows through a series of emotional and tender moments.
This film is scheduled to be released in cinemas on February 21, 2025.
Leave a Reply