KUCHING: South Korean actor Cha Ji-hyuk, known for his appearance in Netflix series Bloodhounds 2, will star in a new Korean-Malaysian feature film set and filmed entirely in Sarawak.
Production for Distinct: Becoming Sarawak is scheduled to begin on June 15, bringing together creative talents from South Korea and Malaysia in a project highlighting Sarawak’s cultural diversity.
Cha will share leading roles with Malaysian actresses Siti Nur Aishah Bee Md Nor and Shelyn Poh in a story centred on love, healing and identity.
The film is a collaboration between Korea’s Monster Factory Co. Ltd. and Malaysia’s The Black Label Sdn Bhd, supported by teams from both countries.
Set against Sarawak’s urban lifestyle, cultural heritage and natural landscapes, the romantic comedy aims to introduce an alternative perspective of the state internationally.
According to the production team, the story explores how differences can unite people, reflecting Sarawak’s multicultural society where diverse communities coexist while preserving their identities.
The production will showcase Kuching and various locations across Sarawak through contemporary city life, creative spaces, local culture and authentic community experiences.
Directed by Shin Ji-hwan and written by Park Ho-young, the film features an experienced Korean production team spanning cinematography, sound, lighting and music.
Chief Executive Officer of The Black Label Sdn Bhd and producer of the film, Lee Sang Chan, said Sarawak offers much more than picturesque scenery.
“Sarawak possesses stories, emotions and a unique energy that give this film its identity and create a meaningful connection with audiences,” he said.
Lee said introducing Kuching and Sarawak to international viewers while encouraging tourism remains one of the project’s primary objectives.
“I hope this film will become a bridge connecting Sarawak with audiences around the world and inspire more people to discover this remarkable place,” he added.
Korean directors, actors and crew members have been in Kuching since June 1 undertaking extensive pre-production activities and strengthening creative industry ties between both countries.
The project also involves local production support partner Semarak Kreatif Sdn Bhd, led by Azri Ali, Qawiem Hamizan and Hanis Ali, working closely with Korean counterparts.
Lee said the collaboration is expected to create opportunities for local actors, crew members and creative professionals while paving the way for future Korean productions in Malaysia.
