After 6 Years, 'Virus' Finally Hits Theaters: A Unique Take on Love and Infection

The film 'Virus', which wrapped filming in 2019, is finally set to release after a six-year wait.

On the 28th, a press screening for the movie 'Virus' (directed by Kang Yi-kwan) was held at the CGV Yongsan I'Park Mall in Seoul. Director Kang Yi-kwan, along with stars Bae Doona, Kim Yoon-seok, and Jang Kiha, were in attendance.

'Virus' tells the story of Taek-seon (played by Bae Doona), who becomes infected with a virus that causes a 100% fatal attraction to love. She embarks on an unexpected journey with three men: Su-pil (played by Son Seok-gu), a research scientist, Yeon-woo (played by Jang Kiha), an old classmate, and Lee Gyun (played by Kim Yoon-seok), the only expert capable of creating a cure.

In the film, Bae Doona plays Taek-seon, a translator who falls in love with the world due to a virus that nearly wipes out her romantic cells. Kim Yoon-seok portrays Lee Gyun, an expert dedicated to researching the 'Toxo Virus'. Jang Kiha takes on the role of Yeon-woo, Taek-seon's classmate and a car dealer.

Director Kang Yi-kwan explained, “When you look at films about viruses, they often depict negativity, fear, city lockdowns, and near-apocalyptic scenarios. But viruses themselves are not to blame. From a scientific perspective, some viruses can be beneficial, and I wanted to show a virus that positively changes people.”

He continued, “The story of a catastrophic virus is usually told from a macro perspective, focusing on how society should stop the spread and find solutions. However, this film is different as it unfolds from the personal perspective of a woman infected with an unknown virus, searching for a cure to save herself.”

Kim Yoon-seok shared, “When I received the script, I found it unique and quirky. The emotional state where one cannot distinguish between love and infection was intriguing. That aspect drew me in.”

Bae Doona added, “Initially, I thought it was quirky, but there were relatable parts. Love can indeed spread like a virus, and there's a healing process involved. Having done many crime and zombie films, I craved a cheerful movie. The script had moments that made me chuckle, and filming was refreshing and healing.”

The film also features a notable age-gap romance between Kim Yoon-seok and Bae Doona, who are 12 years apart. Kim Yoon-seok humorously remarked, “It felt more like an action scene than a love scene. In one scene, I was wearing a tie, and Bae Doona unknowingly pulled it, choking me. She’s quite strong. I held on until I felt dizzy. When else would I get to do such a scene at my age?”

When asked about the film's highlights, Jang Kiha said, “Unlike other films, this one has a unique sense of humor. If you enjoy subtle humor, I hope you'll visit the theater.”

Kim Yoon-seok, who is finally meeting audiences after six years, expressed, “I’m happy but also nervous. The world has changed a lot since we filmed this movie. Who would have thought protective suits and PCR tests would become everyday occurrences? The theater is a place where people can gather, focus, laugh, and share energy. I hope many will come to see the film in theaters.”

'Virus' is set to release on the 7th of next month.