The President's Barber (2004 Film)
The President's Barber (Korean: 효자동 이발사; RR: Hyojadong Ibalsa) is a 2004 South Korean drama-comedy film directed by Lim Chan-Sang. The film, produced by Chungeorahm Films, explores the life of an ordinary citizen caught in the political turbulence of South Korea during the mid-20th century.
Plot
The story follows Sung Han-Mo (played by Song Kang-Ho), a simple barber operating in the Hyoja neighborhood, located near the Blue House, the official residence of the President of South Korea. Han-Mo's life takes an unexpected turn when he inadvertently helps capture a North Korean spy. This event leads to his appointment as the personal barber to the President, thrusting him into the inner circle of national power during a volatile era of South Korean history.
Cast
The film features a prominent ensemble cast of South Korean actors:
- Song Kang-Ho as Sung Han-Mo
- Moon So-Ri as Kim Min-Ja
- Lee Jae-Eung as Sung Nak-An
- Jo Young-Jin as The President
- Son Byung-Ho as Jang Hyeok-Su
Production
The film was directed by Lim Chan-Sang, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Jang Min-Suk. It was released on May 5, 2004, with a runtime of 116 minutes. The cinematography was handled by Jo Yong-Kyu.
