‘The Thieves’ The Meaning Behind The Characters’ Nicknames Revealed

Upcoming film 'The Thieves' unveils the meaning behind Pepsee, Enicall, Zampano, and the rest of the characters' unique nicknames.

'The Thieves' is the crime action film of ten Korean and Chinese professional thieves who team up to steal the notorious hidden diamond 'Tears of the Sun' in a Macao casino.

Actor Kim Yoon Suk plays 'Macao Park,' receiving his nickname as the legend who won $8,800K in one night at a Macao casino. Macao Park is the central figure and designer of the operation, connecting the thieves from Korea and China.

Pepsee, played by Kim Hye Soo, is the legendary safecracker who is able to open anything in her hands. Director Choi Dong Hoon revealed, "At first, I called Kim Hye Soo, 'Hye Soo sshi, Hye Soo sshi' which suddenly became Heseu sshi and then Hepsshi, and finally Pepsee."

Actor Lee Jung Jae's character Popeye is the leader of the Korean thieves. The nickname Popeye was created by Director Choi Dong Hoon's desire to make the character seem stronger and reflect his personality, "It's a name I've always wanted to use in a film. Thanks to Lee Jung Jae, the name Popeye is drawn out with more manly charm."

Actress Jun Ji Hyun's nickname Enicall originated with her character's professional conviction and delightfulness, traits which thieves should possess. When crime calls, she is always running toward it, saying 'Yeah~'

Chewed Gum (Chewing Gum), played by Kim Hae Sook, received her nickname as a thief who uses the gum she was chewing to carry out a crime. Chewed Gum is the oldest thief on the team, who uses wit in her endeavors and is preparing for retirement. Director Choi Dong Hoon stated, "This is the name which I'm most proud of. Chewed Gum was initially a male character; however, I thought of actress Kim Hae Sook's image and changed the role into a female character with a stronger name."

Actor Oh Dal Soo plays Andrew, a uniquely charmed timid gunman, whose name was taken from a British prince. In contrast to Oh Dal Soo's appearance, the refined name Andrew aims to give audiences a good laugh.

Kim Soo Hyun plays pure Zampano, who has genuine feelings for Enicall. He received his nickname from Anthony Quinn's character in Italian film 'La Strada.'

'The Thieves' will premiere on July 25.