"Peninsula," directed by Yeon Sang-ho, is a 2020 South Korean action-horror film and a standalone sequel to the critically acclaimed "Train to Busan." Upon its release, "Peninsula" faced mixed to negative reviews, with many critics feeling it did not quite capture the intensity and emotional depth of its predecessor. Audiences were divided; some praised its high-octane zombie action sequences and stunning visuals, while others critiqued its plot and character development as lacking. Featuring Gang Dong-won as Han Jung-seok and Lee Jung-hyun as Min-jung, the film explores the chaotic and devastated Korean Peninsula overrun by zombies. Over time, however, "Peninsula" has undergone a reevaluation among genre fans and some critics, with many appreciating its ambitious set pieces, unique setting, and expansion of the "Train to Busan" universe's lore. It is now often regarded as an underrated gem within the zombie genre, appreciated for its entertainment value and its daring divergence from conventional zombie narratives.
Main Cast of Peninsula
Gang Dong-won
Han Jung-seok
In the movie 'Peninsula,' Gang Dong-won delivers a gritty and compelling performance as Han Jung-seok, a former soldier navigating a post-apocalyptic Korea overrun by zombies. His portrayal blends resilience with vulnerability, showcasing a nuanced character caught between survival instincts and a longing for redemption. Compared to his earlier roles, such as in '
A Violent Prosecutor' where he played a sharp and quick-witted prosecutor, this role demands a more physical and emotionally raw performance, highlighting his versatile acting range. A notable trivia fact is that 'Peninsula' is the sequel to the critically acclaimed 'Train to Busan,' and Gang Dong-won's character adds a fresh dynamic, expanding the franchise's universe.
Lee Jung-hyun
Min-jung
Lee Jung-hyun plays the character Jang Min-jae in the 2020 South Korean action-horror sequel 'Peninsula,' which follows survivors navigating a zombie-infested wasteland. This role marked a significant departure from her earlier work primarily known for music and acting in musical films and dramas, showcasing her versatility in a high-stakes, action-packed narrative. Her performance stood out due to the physicality and intensity required, contrasting with her previous more restrained or musically-oriented roles, and helped solidify her presence in mainstream cinema beyond her established music career.
Kwon Hae-hyo
Kim Noh-in
Kwon Hae-hyo played a supporting role in the 2020 South Korean action-horror film 'Peninsula,' the sequel to the hit movie 'Train to Busan.' His portrayal was praised for adding depth and emotional gravity to the intense, fast-paced narrative, providing a compelling human element amid the chaos of a zombie apocalypse. What made his performance unique was his ability to balance moments of vulnerability with quiet resilience, which resonated strongly with audiences and critics alike. A lesser-known fact about Kwon Hae-hyo's involvement is that he participated in additional stunt training specifically for the film's intense action sequences, showing his dedication to bringing authenticity to his role and enhancing the film's overall dynamic energy.
Kim Min-jae
Sergeant Hwang
Kim Min-jae delivers a compelling portrayal of Sergeant Hwang in the action-packed film 'Peninsula,' showcasing a blend of toughness and vulnerability that adds depth to the high-stakes narrative. His performance stands out compared to his previous roles, such as his charismatic presence in 'Dr. Romantic 2,' by embracing a more intense and gritty character, demonstrating his versatile acting range. A trivia fact about Kim Min-jae is that before rising to prominence in acting, he pursued a career in hip-hop, which occasionally influences his dynamic on-screen energy.
Lee Re
Joon-yi
Crew of Peninsula
Full backstage crew list →