Upcoming Korean fantasy film Strange Snack Shop Jeoncheondang has unveiled its first character stills of Lee Re, offering a closer look at the actress’s dramatic transformation into one of the story’s central antagonistic figures.
Based on a best-selling Japanese novel series, Strange Snack Shop Jeoncheondang tells the story of mysterious events surrounding a magical snack store that grants wishes to visitors carrying special lucky coins. The live-action adaptation was produced in South Korea and is scheduled to premiere in theaters this May, with a separate 12-episode series version planned for release later in the year.
In the film, Lee Re takes on the role of Yomi, the owner of a rival snack shop called Hwaangdang. Unlike the warm and mysterious atmosphere surrounding Jeoncheondang and its owner Hong Ja, played by Ra Mi Ran, Yomi represents temptation, jealousy, and emotional manipulation. She becomes a disruptive force capable of interfering with people’s destinies while standing directly opposed to Hong Ja throughout the story.
The newly released stills immediately drew attention for their dark and unsettling atmosphere. Dressed entirely in black, Lee Re presents Yomi with a cold, piercing gaze that creates an intimidating screen presence. Her sharp expressions and restrained body language give the impression of someone capable of seeing through the hidden desires of others, heightening curiosity about the role she will ultimately play in the unfolding conflict.
Several images also hint at Yomi’s manipulative nature, including scenes where she tightly grabs a customer’s arm or stares silently with an unreadable expression. The stills suggest that her character may become one of the main catalysts behind the strange and dangerous events surrounding the mysterious snack shops.
Although still young, Lee Re already possesses over 15 years of acting experience, having built a reputation as one of Korea’s strongest child actresses before gradually transitioning into more mature and emotionally complex roles. Through Yomi, she appears set to showcase a darker and more layered side of her acting range.
Speaking about the character, Lee Re explained that she wanted Yomi to feel irritating and unpredictable while still remaining strangely compelling to viewers.
“While highlighting Yomi’s annoying yet hard-to-hate traits, I focused on naturally showing my presence within the film,” the actress shared.
The combination of fantasy, psychological tension, and morally ambiguous characters has already made Strange Snack Shop Jeoncheondang one of the more closely watched Korean fantasy projects of the year. With Ra Mi Ran and Lee Re positioned as opposing forces at the center of the story, many viewers are particularly anticipating the chemistry and rivalry between the two actresses.
Strange Snack Shop Jeoncheondang is scheduled to premiere in theaters on May 29.
