Inside the Intensity of ‘Shark: The Storm’: Cast Reveal Grit, Growth, and Gangland Drama
Harper’s BAZAAR Korea has released a striking photo shoot featuring Kim Min-seok, Lee Hyun-wook, and Lee Jung-hyun, stars of the new Tving Original drama, Shark: The Storm. Captured in raw and rugged energy, the editorial reflects the gritty themes of the new series, a follow-up to the 2021 film Shark: The Beginning.
Shark: The Storm follows the story of Cha Woo-sol (played by Kim Min-seok), who after a tragic event is incarcerated in a juvenile facility. There he faces off against the formidable Han Sung-yong (Lee Jung-hyun), one of the prison’s top figures. As Cha transforms into a powerful fighter, he catches the attention of violent gang boss Hyun Woo-yong (Lee Hyun-wook).
Returning to the screen after four years, Kim Min-seok reflected, “I’m excited but nervous—I was surprised to see how young we all looked in the teaser.” He added, “Cha Woo-sol evolved from someone who only fought when necessary into a protector who acts without hesitation. I saw it as a challenge to keep his original innocence while delivering intense action seamlessly.”
Lee Hyun-wook, who made a cameo in the film, is now fully embodying the villain Hyun Woo-yong. “I had fun expanding the brief role I previously played,” he shared. “Though there’s an original webtoon, I didn’t read it till the end. Instead, I channeled my own quirks—like staring silently when confused—to give Hyun a more raw, natural essence.”
As the comic relief turned crucial companion, Lee Jung-hyun remarked, “Playing Han Sung-yong again gave me confidence and comfort. This time, he’s a man who’s seen life’s bitterness—I portrayed him with a dry, detached tone. Viewers might find him fundamentally changed.”
True to its roots, the heart of the series is action. “One-on-one fight scenes lasted for over ten minutes,” Kim revealed. “We rehearsed for hours, three times a week. I hope our struggles are visible on screen. I want people to say, ‘How did they film that? That’s insane.’”
Lee Hyun-wook compared the training to the Taegeuk Training Center: “It was almost Olympian. One of our fight scenes ran up to 20 minutes before editing—the longest I’ve encountered in-series.”
When asked about personal goals, Kim Min-seok boldly stated, “I don’t have one. I live each day doing my best. If I end without regrets, I’m fulfilled.” Lee Hyun-wook added, “I want to keep acting passionately until I have no regrets—without compromising on my values.” Lee Jung-hyun echoed, “Lasting long in this field is an achievement in itself. Whether people like my performance or not, I’ll continue to polish my craft because I simply love acting.”
The complete editorial and interviews are featured in the June issue of Harper’s BAZAAR Korea and available online.
