Jung Woo-sung portrays General Lee Tae-shin in the film '12:12 The Day,' a character inspired by real-life General Jang Tae-won. The movie, released in November 2022 in South Korea, quickly became a box office sensation, grossing over $90 million by the end of December and claiming the title of Korea's highest-grossing film of the year.
'12:12 The Day' delves into a significant moment in Korean history, revolving around the events of December 12, 1979, following the assassination of President Park Chung-hee in October of the same year. Park, who rose to power through a coup in 1961 and subsequent election in 1963, faced declining popularity in the 1970s, leading to martial law and suppression of dissent.
After Park's assassination, tensions escalated as Army Chief of Staff Jeong Seung-hwa grew concerned about General Chun Doo-hwan's political ambitions. Chun, a member of the Hanahoe military club seeking increased influence, retaliated by arresting Jeong and staging a coup when faced with resistance.
The film portrays the chaotic events of December 12, 1979, when South Korea's armed forces found themselves in disarray, torn between conflicting loyalties and commands. Characters in the movie, though given pseudonyms, closely mirror the historical figures of the time, with Hwang Jung-min delivering a compelling performance as the ruthless General Chun Doo-gwang.
Jung Woo-sung's portrayal of General Lee Tae-shin as a principled figure standing against corruption and manipulation resonates throughout the film. Director Kim Sung-su skillfully condenses the tumultuous day into a two-hour narrative, highlighting the shifting allegiances and the stark consequences of political upheaval.
While '12:12 The Day' offers a glimpse into South Korean history, its themes of democracy, integrity, and sacrifice hold universal relevance. The film serves as a poignant reminder of the perils of power-hungry manipulation and the valor of those who choose the path of righteousness.
