The posthumous film of the late actor Song Jae-lim, Crypto Man, is set for release on January 15. Ahead of its debut, a press conference was held on the 6th at CGV Yongsan in Seoul, attended by director Hyun Hae-ri and cast members Min Sung-wook, Ahn Woo-yeon, So Hee-jung, and Cha Jung-won.
Crypto Man is a crime drama inspired by the shocking global collapse of the Luna cryptocurrency in 2022. The story follows young entrepreneur Yang Do-hyun, exploring the dark side of the startup world and the harsh realities of youth driven by get-rich-quick schemes. Song Jae-lim delivered a compelling performance as the protagonist Yang Do-hyun, marking this as his final work.
At the press event, the cast and director shared memories of working with Song Jae-lim, often moved to tears. Director Hyun Hae-ri praised Ko’s contributions, saying, “He was incredibly knowledgeable about stocks and cryptocurrency, offering valuable ideas during filming. Above all, he was a warm and humane actor.”
Ahn Woo-yeon reminisced, “We grew close enough to visit each other’s homes even after filming. From the very first shoot, we had great chemistry and exchanged ad-libs effortlessly. I’m grateful to have worked with him and will do my best to promote Crypto Man in his honor.”
Min Sung-wook described Song as “genuinely dedicated to his craft, despite his cool exterior. His gaze in the final scene was unforgettable. I believe this will be his greatest work. I miss him deeply.”
So Hee-jung fondly recalled, “I can’t forget him in his short-sleeved school uniform, showing off his muscular arms. I learned so much during filming.” Cha Jung-won added, “He was like a real expert on set with his extensive accounting knowledge. He brightened the atmosphere with his chatter, and every moment with him was enjoyable. I miss him a lot.”
Director Hyun emphasized that Crypto Man aims to deliver a social message beyond recounting an event. “The film questions whether the fault lies with the scammer, those who trusted them, or the system itself,” she explained, highlighting the deeper meaning behind the story.
The production involved meticulous research and legal consultation to ensure authenticity. Early viewers praised its depth, with one stating, “I expected the film to focus solely on cryptocurrency, but it offered a broader narrative of the protagonist’s life, making it more engaging.” Another remarked, “It made me reflect on the consequences of addiction to investment and obsession with success.” However, some noted that the cryptocurrency theme could be challenging for unfamiliar audiences.
Tackling sensitive societal issues like speculative fever and quick-buck mentalities, Crypto Man is anticipated to leave a lasting impact on viewers. As Song Jae-lim’s final work, the film holds special significance, serving as both a legacy and a heartfelt farewell.
