Song Ji Hyo will be spending more time in China during the next few months. She has accepted a role in the Chinese film "708090." And she recently traveled to Shenzen to appear at a press conference for the film, along with her co-star Taiwanese actor Kenji Wu.
The film tells the story of young people who lived in Shenzen between the 1970s and the 1990s. Despite often overwhelming obstacles, the film's young characters work hard to realize their dreams.
Song will play Duan Yu Rong, a hardworking young woman who must overcome many hardships to accomplish her goals. She's determined, optimistic, loyal to her friends and good at solving problems so this helps her succeed.
Song was warmly received in China because she has there. Chinese audiences know her from her appearances on the popular variety show "Running Man" and her performance in the recent drama "Emergency Couple" with co-star Choi Jin Hyuk. The Chinese media were eager to talk to her when she arrived to promote her upcoming project.
According to her agency C-JeS Entertainment, her appearance was widely covered by the Chinese media.
"She received enthusiastic responses from the reporters at every event she attended with a bright smile on her face," said the C-JeS representative.
At the press conference the actress admitted that she was attracted to the script of "708090" because of the unique view it provided.
"Through this movie I was able to experience and see the different charms of China's past and present," said Song. "I am very excited but also quite nervous to be being part of this film. After the filming wraps up, I would like to visit China to meet and get closer to the fans there. The conference was a great beginning step for the movie and an experience I want to remember."
The film begins shooting in a few weeks and is scheduled for release throughout China in Aug. 2015.
Song is the latest in a series of k-drama and k-movie actors who have gone to China to work. Other Hallyu stars recently recruited by Chinese productions include Song Seung Hoon, Song Hye Kyo, Rain, Kim Tae Hee, Kim Bum, Jang Nara and Lee Da Hae. In most cases, the actors don't need to speak the language as their voices are dubbed over.
Chinese production companies have recruited Korean actors in their films and dramas, as k-dramas are becoming increasingly popular among Chinese audiences.
