Chun Woo Hee and Lee Jun Ho to star in Veteran 3? Anticipation builds for next installment of hit action franchise
Two of Korea’s most acclaimed actors, Chun Woo Hee and Lee Jun Ho, are reportedly in talks to headline the upcoming crime-action film Veteran 3 (working title), the next chapter in one of South Korea’s most successful film franchises.
Their potential casting has sparked excitement among fans eager to see how the blockbuster series will evolve.
Especially as the second film in the franchise, I, The Executioner, was so successful.
Chun Woo Hee positively reviewing offer
On February 11th, Chun Woo Hee’s agency Blitzway Entertainment confirmed that the actress has received an offer to join Veteran 3 and is “currently in talks to appear,” adding that the outlook for her participation is favorable.
If confirmed, this would mark Chun’s first film project in several years, following her wide-ranging performances in projects such as Unlocked, The Wailing, and Han Gong Ju.
Known for her ability to portray emotionally complex characters, Chun’s addition to the franchise has fueled speculation about whether she will join the investigative team or portray a morally ambiguous figure.
I’m voting for ‘investigate team’, aren’t you?
Lee Jun Ho also in talks, and may take on dark role
Lee Jun Ho, a member of 2PM and an award-winning actor in both television and film, was previously confirmed to be in discussions for a major role in Veteran 3. His agency stated that he had received the offer and was positively reviewing it.
Reports indicate that Lee may take on the role of the film’s main antagonist, marking a dramatic shift from his recent romantic and heroic roles. If finalized, the casting would highlight his versatility and signal a bold transformation as he steps into the shoes of a formidable villain.
Talk about an actor willing to improve his craft, eh?
Meawwhile, Lee Jun Ho’s growing filmography and reputation as a bankable star have made his possible involvement one of the most anticipated aspects of the upcoming sequel.
Veteran is a Korean franchise built on massive success
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Ryu Seung Wan, who also directed the first two in the series, the Veteran series follows veteran detective Seo Do Cheol, played by Hwang Jung Min, as he relentlessly pursues powerful criminals.
The franchise has achieved enormous commercial success.
The original Veteran (2015) became a major box office hit, drawing more than 13 million moviegoers and cementing its status as one of Korea’s most popular action films.
Its sequel, I, the Executioner, also performed strongly, attracting over 7 million viewers despite challenges in the theatrical market.
Both films combined thrilling action with social commentary, earning critical praise and building a loyal audience.
High expectations for the next chapter
While plot details for Veteran 3 remain under wraps, anticipation is high, especially following the open-ended developments at the end of the previous installment.
With Hwang Jung Min also expected to reprise his iconic role, and new talent potentially joining the cast, the film promises to expand the franchise’s universe and raise the stakes once again.
Production is expected to begin after director Ryu Seung Wan completes his current commitments, with further casting and release details to be announced in the coming months.
If Chun Woo Hee and Lee Jun Ho officially sign on, their collaboration would bring together two powerhouse performers, adding new intrigue and star power to one of Korea’s most beloved action film series.
I’m all in for it, aren’t you?
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