Lee Seung-gi and Kim Yun-seok Star in 'About Family,' A Heartwarming and Humorous Drama (2025)

On the afternoon of November 21, the press screening and media conference for the film 'About Family (대가족),' directed by Yang Woo-seok, were held at Lotte Cinema World Tower in Songpa-gu, Seoul.

The film 'About Family' tells the story of Ham Moo-ok (김윤석), the self-made owner of the dumpling restaurant Pyeongmanok, who finds his life turned upside down when his only son, Ham Moon-seok (이승기), leaves home to become a Buddhist monk. Haunted by fears that his family lineage will end, Moo-ok faces a surprise when two unexpected grandchildren appear, bringing with them both happiness and revelations about Moon-seok's shocking past.

As the latest work by director Yang Woo-seok, known for 'The Attorney' and 'Steel Rain,' 'About Family' blends humor and heartfelt drama while addressing themes of division, unity, and communication in today’s world. The film deeply examines human deficiencies and the challenges of modern family relationships, exploring how Moo-ok, a miserly and stubborn man who once refused to stop making dumplings even on the day of his wife’s death, rediscovers joy and generosity through his grandchildren. Meanwhile, Moon-seok, who severed ties with his father after his mother’s death and entered a monastery, confronts the truth about children he unknowingly fathered during his time as a medical student. As Moon-seok navigates this newfound connection, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery, understanding the true meaning of family and seeking closure to his lifelong questions about his late mother.

At the press conference following the screening, actors Kim Yun-seok, Lee Seung-gi, Park Soo-young, and director Yang Woo-seok shared stories and reflections about their experience working on 'About Family.'

Kim Yun-seok, who plays Ham Moo-ok, described the depth and complexity of his character. "Ham Moo-ok starts as an unlikable character, but by the end, he becomes more human. He’s a man filled with deficiencies, which I saw as a reflection of myself and others. I wanted to portray not just his flaws but also how he represents parts of all of us—our shortcomings and vulnerabilities. Through his story, I hoped to show that family, even if not connected by blood, is what ultimately embraces us. This was my main reason for taking on the role."

Kim also spoke about working with Lee Seung-gi, praising his talent and adaptability. "Lee Seung-gi has an incredible ability to absorb and adapt. He’s quick to respond and knows how to react to his scene partner’s performance. For instance, there’s a scene where Moon-seok arrives late for an ancestral ritual, and Moo-ok erupts in anger. That moment is charged with genuine frustration—Moo-ok has invested everything in Moon-seok, even building him a building, only for his son to abandon it all and cut ties with the world. From Moo-ok’s perspective, it’s devastating. Yet even in this heated moment, Lee’s expressions added layers of depth to the scene. We had many memorable shoots together, including traveling to locations like Hapcheon, Gwangju, and Wonju to search for the grandchildren. We shared laughs and stories over drinks at the lodgings, making the experience truly unforgettable."

Lee Seung-gi shared his admiration for Kim Yun-seok, calling him a mentor and inspiration. "Working on 'About Family' was more than a film set—it was like a classroom. Director Yang shared so much wisdom, and working with Kim Yun-seok, whom I’ve long admired, was a dream come true. Shooting in the mountains gave us plenty of downtime, which we used to discuss scenes and share stories, especially about his theater days. I gained so much from these moments."

On the topic of family dynamics, Lee reflected, "In real life, father-son relationships aren’t always warm or filled with conversation like in commercials. I think many families struggle with communication simply because they were never taught how to express themselves. Personally, my relationship with my parents became stronger after I got married and had children of my own. It gave me a new perspective on their love and sacrifices."

Director Yang Woo-seok explained his inspiration for 'About Family' and how it compares to his earlier works. "While 'The Attorney' and 'Steel Rain' dealt with heavier topics, 'About Family' carries a lighter, more comedic tone. However, the intention behind all three films is the same: to tell stories that are relevant to the times. With 'The Attorney,' I wanted to spark dialogue about justice; with 'Steel Rain,' I aimed to reflect on the tense political climate. 'About Family' explores the evolving concept of family at a time when its structure and meaning are rapidly changing."

Yang also delved into the film’s Buddhist themes. "I spent a year thinking about Ham Moo-ok and the character’s essence. I eventually imagined Moon-seok as his opposite, a man who turns to Buddhism and renounces worldly life. This led me to study Buddhist teachings further. One key Buddhist idea, 'everywhere is a Buddha, and every act is an offering,' deeply influenced the film. For instance, Moo-ok’s thriftiness and single-minded devotion to tradition mask a profound generosity. Similarly, Moon-seok discovers the unintended outcomes of his youthful decisions and gains enlightenment through his interactions with the grandchildren.

"In Korean cinema, there was once a tradition of Buddhist-themed films like 'Mandala' and 'Aje Aje Bara Aje.' I wanted to revive this spirit while also questioning the role of family in today’s society. Should the responsibility for maintaining family harmony fall solely on its members, or should society as a whole take part? I hope the audience reflects on these questions after watching the film," Yang concluded.

'About Family' invites viewers to laugh, cry, and contemplate the meaning of family through its heartfelt performances and poignant storytelling. The film opens a timely conversation about how family is defined and celebrated in today’s world.

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