Ha Ji-won says she respects Daejong's decision

Actress Ha Ji-won said she has no doubts nor suspicions about the Daejong Film Awards organizing committee's decisions for this year's nominations.

Ha made the remark Thursday afternoon following a statement issued by the committee to play down controversy which arose the previous day, particularly over its selection for Best Actress. The committee dropped Ha who starred in two hit films this year but picked Jang Nara whose film has yet to be released.

"I 100 percent respect the authority and fairness of the Daejong Film Awards," the actress was quoted as saying by her agency Wellmade STARM. "I trust that their decision was made through a rigorous selection process under high standards which I fully respect."

Ha added, "I think it is my greatest joy and pride to have received so much love as an actress -- I do not act or work on a film while my goal set as winning a certain award."

She also expressed her thoughts of Jang. "As an actress, I am extremely distressed to see another actress suffer and be hurt due to the controversy surrounding me. I hope this issue settles down soon so that it does not cause other actors to suffer or be hurt any further."

The 31-year-old actress also thanked her fans for the love and support, adding her hopes that this year's awards becomes a great festival for Korean films and her fellow actors.

Ha starred in two hit films this year -- summer blockbuster "Haeundae" which attracted nearly 11.4 million viewers to become the fourth most-watched film of all time and "Closer to Heaven" which topped the box office for three weeks and has grossed over 2 million viewers since opening in late September.

The awards, now into its 46th year, will take place November 6 at the Olympic Park.

Reporter : Ko Kyoung-seok kave@asiae.co.kr
Editor : Jessica Kim jesskim@asiae.co.kr