Son Ye-jin Makes a Triumphant Return After Seven Years: All Eyes on Park Chan-wookâs No Other Choice
A Long-Awaited Comeback
It has been more than seven years since audiences last saw Son Ye-jin grace the big screen. On August 19, the award-winning actress finally ended her hiatus, stepping back into the spotlight at the production briefing for director Park Chan-wookâs highly anticipated film No Other Choice.
The event, held at CGV Yongsan in Seoul, was nothing short of a media frenzy. With an ensemble cast featuring Lee Byung-hun, Park Hae-soo, Jung Hae-in, and other top names, the project is already being hailed as one of the most talked-about Korean films of the year.
For fans who have followed Son Ye-jinâs career for decades, her reappearance marks more than just another roleâit represents a return of one of Koreaâs most beloved and versatile screen icons.

Stunning First Appearance
At the briefing, Son Ye-jin captivated the audience the moment she appeared. Dressed in a minimalist white dress that highlighted her toned figure and elegant charm, she quickly became the center of attention. Journalists described her as âradiantâ and âeffortlessly graceful,â proving once again why she remains a favorite not only in South Korea but also across Asia.
Her glowing aura and confident presence on stage hinted that this comeback will not be a mere experiment but a major chapter in her career.
Why She Chose This Project
When asked about her decision to return after such a long break, Son Ye-jin was candid:
âHonestly, I just really wanted to work with Director Park,â she said. âWhen I heard that Lee Byung-hun was already cast, I felt Iâd regret not joining. It was a project I had to be part of.â
The actress emphasized that while she had been approached for several projects in recent years, No Other Choice stood out because of its script, its director, and its stellar cast. For her, this was the perfect opportunity to step back into film with confidence and purpose.

Praise from Director Park Chan-wook
Director Park Chan-wook, globally acclaimed for works such as Oldboy and Decision to Leave, did not hold back his admiration for the actress.
âIâve admired Son Ye-jin since The Classic,â he said. âIn this film, she plays a restrained and grounded character, and she does it beautifully.â
Park also highlighted her dedication and ability to embody complex roles with subtletyâqualities that have defined her career and contributed to her reputation as one of Koreaâs most compelling actresses.
Lee Byung-hun on Working with Son Ye-jin
Sharing most of his scenes with her, veteran actor Lee Byung-hun spoke warmly of his first experience collaborating with Son Ye-jin.
âIt was my first time working with her, and she blew me away,â he said with a smile. âShe stayed completely in character on set, while I was still trying to handle everyoneâs questions.â
His comments reveal the professionalism that Son Ye-jin consistently brings to the setâan attribute that has earned her the respect of both peers and directors.
Festival Invitations and Global Buzz
Even before its official release, No Other Choice is already generating international interest. The film has received invitations to prestigious film festivals including Venice, Toronto, and Busan, placing it among the most anticipated Korean films of the year.
This international recognition underscores not only the strength of Director Parkâs storytelling but also the enduring global appeal of stars like Son Ye-jin and Lee Byung-hun.

What This Comeback Means for Son Ye-jin
For Son Ye-jin, returning to the screen is not merely about picking up where she left offâit is about reaffirming her place in an industry that has changed significantly during her absence. Since her last film, the Korean wave (Hallyu) has only grown stronger, with K-dramas and films reaching wider international audiences through streaming platforms.
Her comeback could not be better timed. With her established reputation, global fanbase, and proven talent, Son Ye-jin is poised to make a major impact once again.
Many critics believe that No Other Choice may serve as a career-defining role, one that not only brings her back into the spotlight but also introduces her to a new generation of international viewers.
The Personal Side: A New Balance
Beyond her career, Son Ye-jin has also experienced life-changing milestones in recent years. Marriage to fellow actor Hyun Bin and motherhood have reshaped her perspective, giving her new depth and maturity as an actress.
Although she did not dwell on her personal life at the briefing, her fans affectionately noted that âBaby Alkong,â her young child, will surely be cheering for Mommyâs big-screen return.

Anticipation for Release
With a powerhouse team behind it, No Other Choice is widely expected to become one of the standout Korean films of the year. The combination of Park Chan-wookâs masterful direction, a compelling storyline, and the reunion of top-tier actors has created massive anticipation both in Korea and internationally.
For fans, however, the biggest highlight is undoubtedly the return of Son Ye-jin herselfâa reminder of why she continues to be celebrated as one of Asiaâs most talented and enduring screen stars.
Conclusion
After seven years away from film, Son Ye-jinâs comeback is more than just a casting headline. It is a cultural moment for fans, a promising collaboration for the Korean film industry, and a reaffirmation of her unmatched ability to light up the screen.
With No Other Choice set to debut on the festival circuit and later in theaters, all signs point to another unforgettable chapter in the career of an actress who has long defined elegance, talent, and timeless appeal.
