Vietnamese actor Tran Thanh is set to star in the upcoming Korean film "Kal: The sword of Godumakhan". He recently attended the script reading alongside acclaimed actors Park Bo Gum and Joo Won, marking a significant step in his international career.
According to Daum, the film is set after the fall of the Goguryeo dynasty. It centers on Chilseong (Park Bo Gum), a warrior who loses his memory and is forced into a slave arena to win a legendary sword. In the film, Tran Thanh portrays In Gwi, the general manager of the Tang dynasty's Andong Protectorate. This character significantly impacts the political landscape in the northern region.
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Tran Thanh at the script reading for "Kal: The sword of Godumakhan". Photo: Red Ice Entertainment/Solar Partners |
At the film's meeting, photos of which were released on 9/3, Tran Thanh appeared in dark attire, focusing on the script and discussing with the crew. The actors also performed combat moves to synchronize the action sequences.
Star News reported that Tran Thanh's role was originally cast for actor Cha Seung Won. However, due to filming being postponed from its planned schedule in 8/2025 to this year (2026), Cha Seung Won withdrew from the project.
In addition to Tran Thanh and Park Bo Gum, the film features Joo Won, Jung Jae Young, and Lee Sun Bin. Joo Won portrays Gye Pil Hyeok, a warrior skilled in dual-sword combat who confronts Chilseong. Jung Jae Young plays Heuksugang, the leader of the Goguryeo revival force, a central figure amid the chaotic era. Lee Sun Bin takes on the role of Maya, a member of the revival force.
The project is helmed by director Kim Han Min, known for blockbusters such as *The Admiral: Roaring Currents*, *Hansan: Rising Dragon*, and *Noryang: Deadly Sea*. The film is slated for release in 2027, with plans for distribution in various international markets, including Japan and Vietnam.
Tran Thanh, whose full name is Huynh Tran Thanh, is a 39-year-old actor, television host, and filmmaker. In 2021, he gained significant acclaim with his directorial debut *Bo Gia* (Dad, I'm Sorry), which earned numerous domestic awards, including the Golden Lotus and Golden Kite. In 2023, he released *Nha ba Nu* (The House of No Man), his first self-directed work, which achieved the highest domestic box office revenue at that time.
His film *Mai*, released during the Tet Giap Thin 2024 (Lunar New Year) and rated 18+, was once Vietnam's highest-grossing film, earning 520 billion VND, until *Mua Do* (Red Rain), directed by Dang Thai Huyen, surpassed its record. During the Tet At Ty 2025 (Lunar New Year), *Bo tu bao thu* (Vengeful Quartet) grossed over 300 billion VND, ranking among the highest-earning Vietnamese films of the year.
In his personal life, he publicly began dating singer Hari Won in 2/2016. The couple married in 12/2016 and frequently collaborate professionally.
Cat Tien (according to Nate, NC Press)
