[Busan=Edaily Starin Choi Hee-jae Reporter] “I watched a lot of Korean productions when I was young and learned acting from them, so appearing in a Korean production in Korean feels like a dream.”

Japanese actor Sho Kasamatsu spoke at a press conference for the competition film “Shaving” at the 31st Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) held at BIFF Hill in Haeundae-gu, Busan, on the 9th. He discussed the significance of appearing in a Korean production, the differences between Korean and Japanese film sets, and the genre’s appeal.

He also expressed his gratitude toward co-star Noh Jeong-eui. “Actress Noh Jeong-eui helped keep the atmosphere on set light and cheerful,” Kasamatsu recalled of the filming process.

He also shared his thoughts on the atmosphere on film sets in Korea and Japan. Shō Kasamatsu said, “In Korea, there’s an atmosphere where the actors and the set are treated with greater care,” adding, “In Japan, we’re still working hard to build that culture, but it’s not yet perfect.”

He went on to explain the differences in production styles between the two countries. “In Korea, there’s an atmosphere of ‘creating miracles,’” he said. “However, if you try too hard to create a perfect shot, there are moments when the actors’ energy seems to wane.” He contrasted this by noting, “In Japan, there’s an atmosphere of waiting for miracles.”

He added, “It’s not a matter of which is better or worse; there are lessons to be learned from both.”

Director Kim Jeong-hoon explained, “What drew me in the most when I first received the script was its genre-specific nature,” adding, “I focused on whether we could present a diverse range of elements without losing overall cohesion, while following the female lead’s emotional arc to reach a cathartic climax.”

Director Kim also mentioned the message he wishes to convey to the audience. “There’s a scene and a line of dialogue that really grabbed me when I first received the script,” he said. “I hope that scene resonates as strongly as possible with the audience and helps people who are dealing with any kind of emotional wounds or trauma to overcome them.”

“Shaving” tells the story of Soo-yeon (Noh Jeong-eui), a novelist carrying the scars of her past who is building a new life in a rural mansion. The story begins as she spends time in the isolated mansion with her affectionate boyfriend, Shin-ji (Shō Kasamatsu), who has come to visit during the holiday. The film stars Noh Jeong-eui and Shō Kasamatsu, along with Byun Yo-han and ITZY member Shin Ryu-jin.

“Shaving” has been invited to the competition section of the 31st Busan International Film Festival. The 31st Busan International Film Festival will be held throughout Busan until the 15th at venues including the Busan Cinema Center, CGV Centum City, Lotte Cinema Centum City, the Korean Film Council’s Standard Screening Room, Sohyang Theater Woori Bank Hall, and the Busan Viewers Media Center Public Hall.