Kim Hee-won is a name synonymous with captivating performances in Korean cinema and television. Known for his versatile roles, from chilling villains to heartfelt characters, he has always left a strong impression. Recently, he mesmerized audiences as the enigmatic teacher in Disney+’s “Moving“. But now, he’s taken a bold leap behind the camera to debut as a director with ” Light Shop“. This move marks a new chapter in his career, and his directorial debut has already garnered attention for its emotional depth and visual brilliance.
What’s Light Shop About?
“Light Shop“ revolves around a small, tucked-away store that serves as a bridge between the living and the dead. Customers who find themselves at the crossroads of life and death are mysteriously drawn to this shop, where the lights they choose symbolize their unique journeys and decisions. Adapted from Kang Full’s popular webtoon, the series delves into profound themes of existence, choice, and the invisible threads connecting us all.
In this mystical setting, the shop owner, Won-young, played by Ju Ji-hoon, guides visitors through their existential dilemmas, offering them a chance to reflect on their lives and make pivotal choices. Each episode presents a standalone story, introducing characters with diverse backgrounds and challenges, all converging at the light shop to find solace, answers, or closure.
Kim Hee-won’s direction enhances this deeply personal story, blending heartfelt moments with stunning visuals. His unique vision has brought the beloved webtoon to life in a way that resonates with both fans of the original and newcomers.
Kim Hee-won: A Stellar Acting Career Before Directing
Before taking on the role of director, Kim Hee-won had already established an impressive filmography as a versatile actor. Let’s take a closer look at some of his standout works:
Films
- The Man from Nowhere (2010): Played the chilling villain Man-seok, leaving a lasting impression alongside Won Bin in this action-packed classic.
- The Merciless (2017): Delivered a tense and memorable performance as Go Byung-gap in this crime thriller.
- The Divine Move 2: The Wrathful (2019): Stole the show as the eccentric and unforgettable “Dung Teacher.”
- Pawn (2020): Portrayed Jong-bae, a warm-hearted character in this touching family drama.
- Unlocked (2023): Added depth and suspense as Woo Ji-man in this gripping thriller
Dramas
- Misaeng (2014): Played Manager Park in this realistic workplace drama, earning widespread empathy for his relatable portrayal.
- The Light in Your Eyes (2019): Demonstrated his range in this time-travel-themed drama.
- It’s Okay to Not Be Okay (2020): Showed emotional depth as the father of the lead characters.
- Moving (2023): Captivated audiences as the mysterious teacher, adding layers of intrigue to this Disney+ hit.
- Behind Your Touch (2023): Balanced comedy and heart in his performance, making it a fan favorite.
Kim Hee-won’s ability to transition seamlessly between comedic and dark characters has solidified his position as one of Korea’s most respected and versatile actors in both film and television.
The Journey from Acting to Directing
After his impressive performance in” Moving”, Kang Full personally approached him with the opportunity to direct The Light Shop. While flattered, Kim admitted he was initially hesitant. “It felt overwhelming,” he shared. “I spent a month debating before finally saying yes.”
Once on board, Kim drew from his acting experience to guide his cast. He often demonstrated scenes himself, helping actors grasp the tone and emotion he envisioned. “Acting was something I felt confident about,” he said, “but directing required humility and trust in my team.”
Why Light Shop Stands Out
What makes “Light Shop” so unique is its ability to connect deeply with viewers. Each episode feels like a small, self-contained story that invites the audience to reflect on their own lives. The shop itself becomes a metaphor for healing, discovery, and the light within us all.
Kim Hee-won’s attention to detail shines throughout the series. From the subtlety of a character’s glance to the pauses between words, every moment feels intentional. The result is a quietly powerful drama that resonates long after the credits roll.
What’s Next for Kim Hee-won?
With “Light Shop”, Kim Hee-won has proven he’s not just a talented actor but also a gifted storyteller. Fans are already eager to see what he’ll tackle next, whether it’s another directorial project or a return to acting. Either way, it’s clear that his creativity knows no bounds.
Final Thoughts
Kim Hee-won’s journey from the mysterious teacher in “Moving ” to the director of “Light Shop” is an inspiring testament to his passion for storytelling. The series isn’t just entertainment—it’s a heartfelt exploration of life’s complexities and the connections that light our way.
If you haven’t watched “Light Shop” yet, it’s time to grab some popcorn and dive in. Let the stories and emotions unfold—they’re bound to leave a lasting impression.
Congratulations to Kim Hee-won on his successful directorial debut!