Greta Lee: Aspiring to Create Opportunities for Actors Like Her Younger Self

Hankyoreh is delighted to feature the acclaimed Korean-American actress Greta Lee at the 27th Jeonju International Film Festival. Lee, who graced the opening of the festival with her presence for the film 'My Private Artist,' shared her journey from a two-decade struggle as an unrecognized actress to becoming a sought-after Hollywood star.

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Fame also came late to me. I acted as an unrecognized actor for 20 years, but if I hadn't gained various experiences during that time, I wouldn't have had the opportunity to leap forward.

Her role as Gloria in 'My Private Artist' is particularly poignant. Portraying a character reminiscent of classic Hollywood icons like Marlene Dietrich, Lee's casting as an Asian actress in such a role reflects the evolving landscape of global cinema and the growing influence of K-culture. This is a narrative that resonates deeply within Korea, showcasing how talent from our diaspora is breaking barriers and redefining representation on the international stage.

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I studied characters by watching actresses like Marlene Dietrich in 'Shanghai Express' (1932) and Liza Minnelli in 'Cabaret' (1972). It was a truly special experience to play such a distinctly Western and classic character as a Korean.

Lee's personal story is one of perseverance and destiny. She credits her grandfather, who worked as an artist on US military bases during the Korean War and introduced her to the iconic Greta Garbo, as a significant influence. This familial connection to art and her own name, inspired by Garbo, adds a layer of profound personal meaning to her artistic pursuits.

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My grandfather, who worked as an artist at a US military base during the Korean War and painted movie billboards like 'Gone with the Wind,' was my first teacher. He was the one who first introduced me to the actress Greta Garbo, after whom I was named. My mother said she named me Greta, but I believe my grandfather had an influence. It feels like true destiny.

Looking forward, Lee's ambition extends beyond acting. She is actively preparing for her directorial debut, with a project centered on a young Korean girl. This initiative stems from a desire to create opportunities for those who, like her younger self, are waiting for their chance. It's a powerful testament to her commitment to nurturing new talent and expanding the narrative possibilities within the film industry, a perspective that is increasingly important in Korean cinema's global outreach.

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One of the reasons I want to direct is to create opportunities for people like me. I am developing a project where the protagonist is a young Korean girl, a type of work I really wanted to do when I was her age but didn't have the opportunity for. I want to be someone who provides opportunities to young people waiting for their chance, just like I was back then.