K-Content News

Korean remake of BBC sitcom 'Uncle' is more family-oriented: director

By Kwak Yeon-soo

Actor Oh Jung-se, who has demonstrated his ability to balance both comedic and dramatic roles in hit TV shows, including KBS's "When the Camellia Blooms," tvN's "It's Okay to Not Be Okay" and "Jirisan," is returning to the small screen to play a loser whose music career never took off.

Adapted from a BBC comedy series of the same title, TV Chosun's new drama "Uncle" tells the story of unemployed musician Jun-hyuk (Oh) who forges an unlikely alliance with his 12-year-old nephew, Ji-hoo (Lee Kyung-hoon), after being forced into looking after him by his overbearing sister Jun-hee (Jeon Hye-jin).

Director Ji Young-soo described the series as a coming-of-age story that follows the 30-something failed musician as he grows up and rescues his sister and nephew, who are struggling to make ends meet.

Asked about how it differs from the original British series, he said, "Compared to the original series that takes humor to absurd levels, the remake version is more emotional and it centers on the rift in the family to reach a wider audience.

Oh explained that Jun-hyuk is not good with children and lacks a sense of responsibility, but he is taught to be a grown-up by his nosy nephew.

"I was drawn to the warm exploration of a family told in a humorous way. I saw similarities between Jun-hyuk and me. He is immature but incredibly charming," he said during an online press conference for the series, Thursday.

Jeon Hye-jin, who portrays Jun-hyuk's chaotic sister Jun-hee in the upcoming series, explained that "Uncle" is a comedy about grief. She elaborated that every character is struggling with some sort of trauma.

"I decided to do this drama because of Oh. Until now, I have portrayed highly successful professionals with strong egos. In contrast, Jun-hee faces trouble ahead as a single mom who has nobody to lean upon," she said.

Lee Kyung-hoon, who left a strong impression with his debut role in the 2020 feature "Beyond That Mountain," landed the role through an audition.

"I really wanted to be part of Uncle because Ji-hoo plays such an important role in the drama. Ji-hoo is an adult-like child who just wants to play like other kids. I also focused on showing off his musical talents," he said.

The child actor expressed gratitude to Oh and Jeon. "Before filming, I met with Oh and read through the script together. I'm also thankful to Jeon for acting like my real mom. She kept nagging me to stop playing games and study. She often carried around snacks for me," he said.

"Uncle" will air on TV Chosun Saturdays and Sundays at 9 p.m.