Blackpink’s Jisoo and Park Jeong-min in scenes from “Newtopia.” Images: Courtesy of Coupang Play and Prime Video Korea
Blackpink’s Jisoo and Park Jeong-min are aware that zombie apocalypse is not a new theme in K-dramas. But what attracted them to take on “Newtopia” is how it manages to portray a “fairytale” amid the tragedy while showing the value of staying resilient.
The eight-part series tells the story of Lee Jae-yoon (Park) and Kang Young-joo (Jisoo) conquering the odds of a zombie-infested Seoul to get back together.
While “Newtopia” takes place during a zombie apocalypse, it includes elements of comedy and campiness which offer a break from the horrific flow of events.
“A zombie apocalypse can feel like a heavy theme, but ‘Newtopia’ balances the grimness with characters who navigate the chaos in unique ways, all while keeping a sense of humor,” Jisoo told INQUIRER.net in an email interview when asked how the drama will standout despite having a common theme.
“I was drawn to it because it doesn’t just focus on the chaos and fear of a zombie apocalypse — it also highlights the characters’ love, and growth, and even has moments of humor,” she continued.
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Meanwhile, Park described the series as a “zom-com,” or a form of a “true zombie romantic comedy,” which in itself, challenged him to improve the way he “interacted and coordinated” with the camera.”
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“‘Newtopia’ is like a fairytale disguised as a zombie series. Despite its theme, it is adorable, heartfelt, and light-hearted.
This is what I believe sets it apart from other zombie series or films. I think it might offer a similar sense of freshness that viewers felt with the film ‘Warm Bodies,’ but in its own unique way,” he added.
Park Jeong-min and Blackpink’s Jisoo during the press conference for “Newtopia.” Image: Courtesy of Coupang Play and Prime Video Korea
“Newtopia” was Jisoo’s first time to dabble in a zombie apocalypse-themed project.
Despite the life-threatening experiences that Young-joo went through throughout the series, the singer-actress realized that she enjoyed doing action while filming.
“This was my first time working on a project set in a zombie apocalypse, and I discovered how much I enjoy filming action sequences. I hope to work on an action project in the future that involves even more stunts,” she said.
“Every single member of the cast and crew was incredibly dedicated, pouring their hearts into the project.”
Agreeing with the Blackpink member, Park said working on the series was “initially challenging” but it was the help of his co-stars, crew, and filmmaker Yoon Sung-hyun that made the filming process enjoyable for him.
“It was initially challenging, but both the cast and crew quickly adapted, and we were able to enjoy,” he added.
“There was a scene where we had to fight zombies, and I remember feeling nervous. Fortunately, with the excellent collaboration of the crew and stunt team, we were able to complete the scene safely. I remember feeling incredibly proud on the day we wrapped up that scene.”
Park Jeong-min in a scene from “Newtopia.” Image: Courtesy of Coupang Play and Prime Video Korea
Portraying their characters
Touching on the personality of her character Young-joo, Jisoo said her inner strength is what captivated her the most.
This particular trait allowed the actress to see a part of herself while filming and challenge herself to think on her feet simultaneously, noting it is one of her defining moments throughout the series.
“I learned about resilience and staying grounded during challenging times as I watched Young-joo overcome a series of misfortunes and grow through them. I saw a part of myself in Young-joo’s strength, seeing how she refused to let her losses define her and kept moving forward,” she said.
“At the same time, I had to dive deeper to understand her mindset truly. In emotional situations, she often prioritized feelings over logic, which is different from how I’d approach decisions. I hope Young-joo becomes a character loved by many people. I put a lot of thought into shaping her into a character viewers can truly cheer for,” continued Jisoo.
Jisoo in a scene from “Newtopia.” Image: Courtesy of Coupang Play and Prime Video Korea
For his part, Park said he relates to Jae-yoon’s frustration as he struggled to deal with uncertainty at some point in his life.
“I believe many young people have struggled with concerns similar to what Jae-yoon faces. I also had moments of frustration and even considered giving up when faced with an uncertain future.”
“Of course, I’m fortunate to stay busy with work,” he continued.
“But ultimately, the future is something that hasn’t arrived yet. That’s why, despite my anxiety, I focus on living fully in the present.”
Jisoo is known for her calm and no-nonsense personality.
This translates to interviews for acting projects and fashion-related pursuits, as well as her activities with Blackpink which is usually seen through their variety shows.
These traits, according to the singer-actress, are helpful when it comes to surviving a zombie apocalypse.
“I think [these are] good personalities to have in that situation. Since I don’t get jump-scared easily, I rarely scream, which would help me escape without drawing the zombies’ attention,” she said.
Park, on the other hand, pointed out that he would rather be bitten and embrace the life of a zombie. “I would quickly get bitten and embrace the peace of living as a zombie,” he said, noting that it’s “easier” for him.
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“It’s probably much easier to be the one that is doing the chasing rather than being chased. Plus, I’d have way more friends around me,” he further explained.
“Newtopia,” which premiered on February 7, also stars Im Sung-jae, Hong Seo-hee, Tang Jun-sang, Lee Hak-joo, and Kim Jun-han.
