Actress Ha Ji-won seemed overwhelmed with emotion during a production briefing of Korea's first 3D action blockbuster "Sector 7" on Thursday. She described acting in the movie as "a dream come true, as I had to wait for five years," and struggled to hold back tears of joy in between praising her colleagues.

"In fact, this film was much harder than any other work I've done. But the director and the other actors were so considerate, and they made the filming process so enjoyable, that I didn't find it that difficult," she said.

Ha spent eight hours a day swimming and training with weights to get in shape for the role, which demanded a considerable amount of physical stamina. In order to immerse herself in the world of the character, who works at sea, she also obtained a scuba diving certificate.

When the story called for her to drive a motorcycle, she surprised everyone on set by earning her license in just one week.

Her previous role as a stuntwoman in the popular TV series "Secret Garden" helped set her up for the tomboyish and competitive character she portrays in "Sector 7."

"I think I get to do strong characters because I love new challenges," she said. "I will try to take on more adorable and lovely roles in the future."

"Sector 7" focuses on the battle for life among human agents and mysterious organisms deep at sea on board the oil rig Eclipse off Korea's south coast. It will be released on Aug. 4.

Source:Chosun Ilbo