In a cozy café nestled in the heart of Samcheong-dong, Seoul, on the afternoon of March 4th, 2024, the air buzzed with anticipation as Kwon Yuri, the star of the upcoming film "Dolphin," sat down for an exclusive interview with Xports News. Directed by Bae Doo-ri, "Dolphin" marks Kwon Yuri's groundbreaking role as the lead in a film that beautifully narrates the story of a woman in her 30s, who, amidst her fears of life's inevitable changes, stumbles upon a newfound joy that propels her into a world of courage and self-realization.
Kwon Yuri embodies Na-young, an everyday woman working as a local newspaper journalist in a provincial small town. Na-young, who has always lived in the small village of Seocheon, cherishes her role as a "home protector," with her family and a stable life with them being her everything. Returning to a face-to-face interview setting for the first time since her "Bossam" video call interview, Kwon Yuri brought laughter to the room, expressing, "I finally feel like an actress."
Eleven years since her film "No Breathing" and seventeen years into her career, Kwon Yuri's return to the big screen in her first solo leading role is filled with excitement and gratitude. "I've always dreamed of acting on the big screen. Having greeted you all through dramas, I'm thrilled to share a new story. I'm thankful for each step along this journey," she shared. Reflecting on the filming of "Dolphin," which concluded three years ago, Kwon Yuri revealed that she now understands her character Na-young more deeply than ever before. Setting aside her past focus on scrutinizing her acting, she immersed herself in the story and experienced a deep connection with her character's emotional journey.
Having encountered "Dolphin" and experiencing both the lengthy and fleeting moments since, Kwon Yuri spoke of her personal growth, friendships, and the process of becoming closer with her family as she navigated her early 30s. "It feels like a natural time for independence," she mused, acknowledging her transition from Girls' Generation's Yuri to standing on her own.
Initially, the prospect of independence was exhilarating, but Kwon Yuri admitted to sharing her character Na-young's fear of change. "I'm clumsy with change and filled with fear. I cherish stability and comfort," she confessed, reflecting on her 20-year journey with SM and ongoing path with Girls' Generation. Nevertheless, Kwon Yuri embraces the belief that new insights emerge from challenges. She shared how recent gatherings with Girls' Generation members for birthdays provided comfort and courage, fostering belief in moments of serendipity akin to a "dolphin" – a bowling term for a lucky shot.
Na-young, a character who holds her feelings close and prefers to silently exist, presented Kwon Yuri with the challenge of expressing complex emotions. "There's a scene where Na-young's pent-up emotions explode. I contributed an idea based on a personal experience," she revealed, recounting a moment when her relentless practice led to an injury, and a simple comment from a doctor brought her to tears.
Despite the pressures of debut and the whirlwind of love and experiences that followed, Kwon Yuri cherishes the journey with Girls' Generation, acknowledging both the blessings and the overwhelming moments. As she looks to the future, she aspires to fully embrace and advance at her own pace.
With pride and gratitude for the love and support received over the years, Kwon Yuri is determined to continue showcasing new and evolved aspects of herself. "Dolphin" is set to open a new chapter on March 13, promising viewers a heartfelt journey of courage, change, and self-discovery.
As Kwon Yuri stands on the precipice of this new endeavor, her story resonates with those yearning for growth amidst the tremors of change. Her journey with "Dolphin" not only marks a significant milestone in her career but also offers a beacon of hope and inspiration to many. Stay tuned for future updates on Kwon Yuri's voyage through life, both on and off the screen.
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