Korean-Filipino thriller ‘The Guardian’ coming to cinemas in September

“The Guardian,” a Korean-Filipino action thriller, is set to hit Philippine cinemas this September, blending action, crime, and family drama.

Starring INFINITE member and Korean actor Nam Woo-hyun, “The Guardian” follows a Taekwondo athlete forced into a dangerous race against time after his mother is kidnapped.

The film arrives in local theaters on September 2, with Filipino stars Yassi Pressman, Wilbert Ross, Fatima Anonuevo, Eric Ejercito, and Ashtine Olviga joining the cast, Olviga appears in a special role.

Directed by South Korean filmmaker Jeong Jang-hwan, “The Guardian” is co-produced by VIVA Films and Ovation Productions. The film first premiered in South Korea last June 17, under the title “Kidnapping: 48 Hours.” It was partly filmed in the Philippines, where much of the story unfolds.

VIVA Films recently unveiled the film’s official poster, describing it as a “major Korean-Filipino cinematic action event.” The studio also teased the movie with the line, “Risk everything for the one you love.” Its official trailer is now available on VIVA Films’ social media pages.

At the center of the story is Park Do-jun, played by Nam, a skilled Taekwondo athlete who once dreamed of representing South Korea on the national team. He eventually puts that dream aside and moves to the Philippines to support his mother, Kim Mi-jin, portrayed by Korean actress Park Eun-hye.

With his mother’s life on the line, Do-jun is given just 48 hours to find her. He sets out on a dangerous mission, relying on his martial arts skills as he races to bring her home.

Nam is known for starring in the Korean youth romance series “High School-Love On” and recently appeared in “Boyfriend on Demand,” which stars BLACKPINK’s Jisoo.

Yassi Pressman has appeared in popular action projects such as “Black Rider” and “Ang Probinsyano,” while Wilbert Ross has taken on roles in various Filipino films and series, including “Golden Scenery of Tomorrow.”

Meanwhile, Ashtine Olviga, a rising talent of VIVA Artists Agency, has been gaining attention through projects such as “Mutya ng Section E” and “Bahay-Bahayan.”