Jung Il-woo Turns Film Investor Again With Cannes Award Winner Sentimental Value

The actor expands his career beyond the screen with a second strategic film investment

Jung Il-woo is no longer just in front of the camera. The Korean actor has officially strengthened his presence in the film industry by participating as an investor in Sentimental Value, the Cannes Grand Prix winning film directed by Joachim Trier.

The movie, which premiered in Korea on February 18, tells the emotional story of a film director father and his two daughters who reconnect through the making of a movie. The project is already gaining global attention after receiving nine nominations at the upcoming 98th Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Jung Il-woo is reported to have supported the film’s Korean release, marking this as his second investment in cinema.

Why Sentimental Value matters on the global stage

The film’s prestige is one of the key reasons it is drawing attention. Winning the Jury Grand Prix at the 78th Cannes Film Festival placed it among the most critically acclaimed titles of the year. Its Oscar momentum further positions it as a major international work, making Jung’s participation a notable move that connects a Korean actor to a globally recognized project.

Industry insiders say he was particularly moved by the story’s theme, which explores the emotional bond between a director and an actor within a family. That personal resonance reportedly played a decisive role in his investment.

From leading man to multi-hyphenate creator

Jung Il-woo’s transition into film investment reflects a broader shift in his career. He recently wrapped up the KBS2 drama Splendid Days, where he played the lead role of Lee Ji-hyuk and received praise for his performance.

He has also confirmed his appearance in upcoming films including the Korea-Vietnam co-production I’m Going to Leave My Mom and The Last Bullet, showing that his acting career continues to move forward alongside his work behind the scenes.

His first investment project was director Michael Shanks’ film Together, which marked his initial step into the business side of filmmaking.

A growing trend among Korean actors

Jung Il-woo’s move reflects a larger industry pattern in which established actors expand into production and investment to gain creative influence and long-term sustainability. By choosing internationally recognized projects, he is positioning himself not only as a performer but as a global film stakeholder.

Sentimental Value is currently playing in theaters across Korea.