SEOUL, As a genuine admirer of Hitoshi Iwaaki’s acclaimed manga “Parasyte,” director Yeon Sang-ho said Tuesday that he wanted to delve deeper into the original Japanese comic’s universe while echoing its core theme of coexistence between humans and parasitic beings.
“When I was a student, ‘Parasyte’ was like a bible to me. I often envisioned what could unfold in the expanded universe of the original Japanese setting,” Yeon said during a press event ahead of its global premiere on Netflix next week.
“Parasyte: The Grey,” a Netflix original Korean series, originated when Yeon reached out to the original comic writer with a letter, expressing his desire to create a Korean adaptation, he said.
“Fortunately, he found the idea very interesting and gave me the freedom to expand upon the original story as I saw fit,” he said, adding: “Bringing ‘Parasyte’ to life on Netflix feels like the ultimate fan endeavor. It’s truly special to expand upon the universe of my favorite comic.”
Initially published in 1989, Iwaa
ki’s manga “Parasyte” has sold over 25 million copies across 30 countries and regions. It is known for its inventive narrative depicting parasites infiltrating human brains to control their bodies and conveying a profound philosophical message.
“Parasyte: The Grey” follows the events unfolding in Korea as the human race falls victim to hungry parasites that silently take over human bodies by permeating through the brain.
The protagonist, Su-in (Jeon So-nee), undergoes a disturbing transformation into a hybrid being, half-parasite and half-human, following a near-fatal accident, when the parasite, Heidi, latches onto her body. However, Heidi fails to gain complete control, leading to a bizarre coexistence between the two entities.
“I am the parasite inside of you. Had we not combined as one, we both would have died,” Heidi tells Su-in after the accident.
“Su-in had led a very lonely life before her encounter with Heidi,” actor Jeon said. “But as she comes to accept the alien presence within her, an intrigu
ing connection begins to form between them, ironically giving Su-in a newfound will to live. I find that dynamic really fascinating.”
The director, known for acclaimed movies and series, including “Train to Busan” (2016), “Hellbound” (2021) and “The Bequeathed” (2024), said he wanted to explore the theme of coexistence, whether within companies, religious institutions or society at large.
And the deepening understanding between Su-in and Heidi epitomizes the overarching theme, the director explained.
The six-part series is set for release April 5.
Source: Yonhap News Agency