2007 Paris Photobook-DVD press conference on 12th July
English translation by Hyc based on Chinese text by Ping-bhjwlove.com
Source: http://www.wmstyle.jp/archives/2007/07/14_205437.php

The monochromeman in the monochromecity
LEE BYUNGHUN X Sukita Masayoshi



First of all ..start of interview.., question from MC.

1. This project proposal of appointing an international photographer Mr. Sukita Masayoshi, and doing all the photography in Paris, can you tell us your reason for agreeing?

BH : First of all, Paris is decided by Mr. Sukita Masayoshi. The place and the appearance of me there, Mr. SM's idea of eI want to take Lee Byung Hun in Paris', I was very anxious when I heard of the storyline. And also, his international artistic quality work is an attraction. The main reason is eHow is he going to portray me in Paris?f and anticipating the image of myself in Paris.

2. As it was March in Paris during the photographing, it was quite cold. Could you talk about the difficulties you faced then?

BH : There is nothing comparable between taking picture and movie screenshot. To talk about the nature of the photography, I would rather say itfs more on the little hardship with the surrounding working situation.
It was during the timemy of my foot injury when apparatus that protected the foot was applied. I didnft expect the strong wind when going to Paris, only thinking that the temperature was considerably low.

We arrived in Paris in the evening, and started taking picture at five o'clock the next morning, really hectic schedule. I felt the fatigue from the first day, and my face has swollen a little. The shooting started off rigidly.

3. For the launching of the photograph collection, please talk about your impression and interest.

BH : This time, the planning of picture composition is done by Mr. SM. I really admire the artistic ability of the photographer. And, there is a strange emotion that comes from the wonderful atmosphere of Paris. However, at the beginning I had some doubt in the subject for a moment. I think that respect can be overlooked.

I like the photograph where I was having the camera. I tried to take Mr. SM and the scenery. The photograph is excellent and the impression was very good like I am Mr. SM, although I was the subject.

Question from mass media:

Congratulations on your birthday. Today is my birthday too. (Some people laughed... MC, gIt is the same?" gNo, then donft say it." The audience in the large hall burst out laughing ¥¥¥ Lee Byung Hun looked very relaxed too, and the killer smile.)

What do you suppose the age of 37 years old is?

BH : I myself don't really feel the age. But, when I return home mother keeps saying, 'Marry' for one whole year. Personally, I think this year is to work hard, and surely the result of this year can be shown next year, isnft it? Because I am going to China for the filming of the new movie the day after tomorrow, and stay in China until September.

"So, will the marriage be next year?"

MC, "I am sorry, this is private matter." The audience laughed.
The next day news articles, television and net, and photographs used this question as headlines. (There were not many remarks to the age.) A smile was drawn.

2. During the shooting, does Mr. LBH show any of your own idea? If there is, what is it? The title, please explain.

BH : The title is not from me. The producer did it.

I don't have the idea of how to take the photos. I have heard of Mr. SM's way of taking picture, how to say it? At first I was a bit confused, didn't know how to take the photos, and then later I understood his intention. I thought when taking picture, it is usual to say "Ah it is good", "Please move for this" or "Let's do it this way". But in Mr. SM's case, it's different. I can't show any expression or preference. He would come silently when I was eating, and followed when I moved away. For instance, the image was taken when I was playing with the dog, and smoking cigarette. Therefore at first I thought he has something against me for such encounter. Then later he said, "No, I did not want to take the 'ready expression' by you, for instance the shed tears, anger, happy, amusement and laughter; I want to take your true appearance." When listening to that, I actually realized, "Ah this is really a master of photography."



MC : Today, it is the sale release of photograph collection and also Mr. Lee Byung Hun's 37th birthday. We present the birthday gift from representative of original publisher Kadokawa magazines.

"We prepared the French vintage wine from Bordeaux made of 1970, the same year as the birth of Mr. Lee BH. Congratulations.h

There and then Lee Byung Hun opened the crate of the wine.

BH : Thank you very much. I love wine. When you present me with the wine the feeling is really good. Don't you think? Always welcome the flowers, but the only regrettable thing is that itfs not possible to take them into the plane though.h

MC: Say something to those who purchase gParish.

BH : I hope you are able to enjoy it.

Afterwards, it's photographing time.



Mr. Sukita Masayoshi was talking about the charm of Lee Byung Hun to reporters in the hall.

"His charm cannot be expressed in one single phrase. However, well, professionally, he is able to merge the person who is photographing and being photographed, has good intuition and wonderful expression. Very often when you are thinking "we want this, that", the splendid expression is there to be caught in an instant. I understand now why he has so many fans."

LBH waved to fans before leaving at the end of the conference.

Gratitude to Hyc-Everything Lee Byung Hun, MyBHinfinitely

Compilation from the Paris Photobook



LBH in Paris MV by sanyaso + song 'Love' by Tim
http://jp.youtube.com/watch?v=VHiiRTbHfJw