Song Joong Ki Rejected ‘My Name is Loh Kiwan’ in 2017 – Here’s What Changed His Mind

Director Kim Hee Jin dished on the behind-the-scenes experience during the filming of Song Joong Ki's movie "My Name is Loh Kiwan."

With the action thriller as her first movie, the filmmaker revealed why she wanted the top star to portray the titular role. 

Did You Know: 'My Name is Loh KiWan' Director Waited 7 Years for Song Joong Ki to Accept the Offer

In an interview with media outlets, director Kim Hee Jin expressed how thankful she is for the actor to finally accept the offer. 

Did you know that the "My Name is Loh Kiwan" director waited 7 years for the top star to officially agree to headline the series? 

According to Kim Hee Jin, the role was previously offered to Song Joong Ki in 2017, but he rejected it. 

At the time, she thought that Song Joong Ki couldn't relate to the character of Loh Ki Wan and how can a person could "fall in love in a country where he's barely surviving."

However, she really wanted the movie to be her directorial debut and chose not to start and "bury" the project. 

"Personally, I put 'My Name is Loh KiWan' aside and continued to prepare other works, but for the character of Loh Ki Wan, I kept only Song Joong Ki in mind and waited."

READ MORE: Song Joong Ki Garners Mixed Reactions for Yet Another 'Fashion Disaster' 

Interestingly, things went in her favor, and she received news that Song Joong Ki had officially said yes to the role. 

"Over the years, his mindset changed, and both he and Netflix made the big decision to go ahead."

She added that many factors, such as schedule, also influenced the actor to accept the offer. 

The director also expressed her gratitude to the top star, adding:

"I don't think it could have been made if it wasn't for actor Song Joong Ki."

Where to Watch 'My Name is Loh Kiwan'

Song Joong Ki's new movie, "My Name is Loh Kiwan," depicts the journey of a North Korean defector named Loh Ki Wan, who arrived in Belgium with the hope of surviving and having a fresh start. 

During his search for his new purpose in life, he meets Marie, played by Choi Sung Eun, who has lost her reason for living. Amid the uncertainty of life, the duo falls in love with each other despite the unpleasant first meeting. 

Released on March 1, "My Name is Loh Kiwan" exclusively airs on Netflix. The streaming giant also released this to over 190 countries around the world.

Other than the duo, the movie also featured a roster of talented stars. 

Song Joong Ki reunites with Jo Han Chul, who played the role of Marie's father, Yoon Seong. 

Both the top star and Jo Han Chul worked together in "Vincenzo" and "Reborn Rich."

Adding to the list of supporting cast members are Seo Hyun Woo, Kim Sung Ryung, Lee Il Hwa, and more. 

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: Song Joong Ki Failed Overseas Auditions? Actor Shows Eagerness to Expand Career Abroad

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Written by Geca Wills