A Space of Remembrance in Yeongcheon: Shin Seong-il Memorial Hall to Open on the 21st

It has been seven years since the beloved actor Shin Seong-il left us.

The Korean film industry continues to remember him as an icon of youth and box-office success. Shin Seong-il passed away on November 4, 2018, at the age of 81, after a battle with lung cancer. Even after being diagnosed with stage 3 lung cancer in 2017, he graced the red carpet at the 23rd Busan International Film Festival, expressing his strong will to 'remain an actor until the end,' never letting go of his passion for the craft.

Debuting in the 1960 film 'Romance Papa,' he dominated the screens throughout the 1960s and 1970s. It's impossible to discuss Korean cinema without mentioning his name. Rising from minor and supporting roles to leading man status, his filmography spans an astonishing 507 films. His unparalleled record of appearing in 89 films in a single year, 1966, symbolically represents the pace and star system of the Korean film industry at the time.

His significant works, such as 'Will Be Loved,' 'Classroom of Youth,' 'Barefooted Youth,' 'Stars' Hometown,' 'Woman in Crisis,' 'America America America,' and 'Evaporation,' resonated with the sensibilities of the era and remain etched in the memories of audiences.

Beyond acting, he expanded his influence into planning and production. His accolades, including the Blue Dragon Film Award for Most Popular Actor, the Asia Film Festival Best Supporting Actor Award, the Grand Bell Award for Best Actor, and the Buil Film Award for Film Development Contribution, attest to his significant contributions.

His marriage to actress Uhm Aing-ran in 1964 garnered national attention outside the silver screen. He also ventured into politics, serving as a member of the 16th National Assembly in 2000, experiencing a life full of twists and challenges before returning to film to continue his passion as an actor.

Efforts to commemorate his legacy continue. The Shin Seong-il Memorial Hall, currently under construction near Goejeong-dong in Yeongcheon-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, is set to open its doors on the 21st of this month. This complex cultural space, spanning approximately 1151 square meters with two above-ground floors, will archive and display records of his works and life.

The unveiling of the restored wedding dress designed by Andre Kim, worn by Uhm Aing-ran at their wedding, is also anticipated, marking the birth of a space where today's audiences can reconnect with the face of an era that illuminated the screen.

Korean netizens expressed excitement and remembrance, commenting, 'Finally, a space to remember the great Shin Seong-il! I want to visit soon,' and 'Rest in peace, Mr. Shin. The news of the memorial hall is heartwarming.' Many also added, 'Yeongcheon now has a must-visit destination when I travel there.'