On July 31, 2025, the Korean Film Council announced that Choi Min Sik and Han So Hee will star in the Korean remake of the popular 2015 Hollywood film, The Intern. This new project aims to present a fresh take on the story, adapting it to suit Korean culture and emotions while maintaining the essence of the original.
In this adaptation, Choi Min Sik will portray the character originally played by Robert De Niro, named Ben, while Han So Hee will step into the role of Jules, made famous by Anne Hathaway. Production, overseen by Anthology Studio, is slated to begin in September.
Expectations and Debates Surrounding the Casting Choices
The announcement of the Korean remake The Intern cast has generated lively discussion among movie enthusiasts. While some viewers welcome the combination of Choi Min Sik and Han So Hee as unexpected and intriguing, others question whether either actor is suited to their assigned roles, especially considering the nature of the characters.
Many comments reflect skepticism toward Han So Hee’s casting as Jules, a working mother and CEO, with some viewers suggesting that an older or more experienced actress might fit the role better. Names like Park Shin Hye, Kang So Ra, Moon Chae Won, and Han Hyo Joo were frequently mentioned as alternatives. Opinions about Choi Min Sik’s fit for Ben are generally more positive, though some viewers remain unconvinced about their overall chemistry.
Public Opinions Reveal Divided Reactions on the Lead Roles
- “Han So Hee’s usual image aside, I think the bigger issue is her acting.” —Anonymous Commentator
- “Jules is a working mom, right? Shouldn’t it be someone a bit older and sharper than Han So Hee? There are plenty of actresses who fit the image better, like Park Shin Hye, Kang So Ra, Moon Chae Won, Han Hyo Joo, etc…” —Anonymous Commentator
- “I think Choi Min Sik fits well, but Han So Hee doesn’t.” —Anonymous Commentator
- “If she’s playing the CEO of an online store, that might work. But her acting skills are lacking, so meh.” —Anonymous Commentator
- “Han So Hee is way too young.” —Anonymous Commentator
- “Neither of them is right for their roles.” —Anonymous Commentator
- “Not a fan of Han So Hee…” —Anonymous Commentator
- “They both don’t seem like office workers… They have such strong personalities it feels like they’d start filming an action scene on the way to work.” —Anonymous Commentator
- “Jules is a fashion company CEO, right? I feel like Han So Hee actually fits that LOL. The role needs someone who’s overworked and a little on edge, and that kind of suits her.” —Anonymous Commentator
- “I seriously love the casting.” —Anonymous Commentator
Anticipating the Production and Cultural Adaptation Ahead
The Korean remake is anticipated to begin full production in September, offering a new perspective on the themes of intergenerational friendship and personal growth that made the original film a global favorite. How the new cast interprets these dynamics in a Korean context remains a point of keen interest among audiences and critics alike.
As the project progresses, public opinion may continue to shift, particularly once trailers and further promotional materials are released. The casting of Choi Min Sik and Han So Hee is a bold choice that could either redefine these beloved characters or prove challenging to reconcile with fans of the original.
The Korean remake The Intern cast has already sparked significant conversation, highlighting the challenges and opportunities inherent in adapting internationally praised films for a local audience.
