Who is Ashin of the North? Jun Ji Hyun talks about role in 'Kingdom' special episode

Who is Ashin of the North, the mysterious woman appearing in the upcoming "Kingdom" special episode?

Actress Jun Ji Hyun revealed some tidbits about the role she's playing in the show — specifically how she approached it and prepared for it.

"I would first of all say when it comes to the physique and stamina that the character required I was ready before I played the role of Ashin," she said in a virtual press conference.

Ji Hyun said she focused mostly on "how to express the anguish in her which in Korean we refer to as 'Han,' how to interpret that emotion into wanting to avenge for the whole land of Joseon."

The Korean actress said she enjoyed shooting several scenes for the show.

"Because my character Ashin is a woman who knows the secret of the resurrection plant so there were certain scenes that continue to hint on that plant and every time I was shooting those scenes I felt like that was penetrating through the entire Kingdom series, so as a fan myself I enjoy myself shooting those scenes," she said.

Ji Hyun said she would "get chills down my spine in those particular scenes so those were the most memorable for me."

As a fan herself, Ji Hyun admits she loves the whole Kingdom series.

"Kingdom is not a series or a particular piece of work that can be changed or that depends on one or two stars or members of the cast I would say," she said.

"It is based on the immaculate script, amazing direction, and fascinating art so I would say Kingdom in itself can be referred to as comprehensive art in its own form," she added.

The show is directed by Kim Seong-hun and written by Kim Eun-hee.

It stars talented Korean actors including Jun Ji-hyun, Park Byung-eun, Kim Si-a, Kim Roi-ha, Koo Kyo-hwan, among others.

"Kingdom: Ashin of the North" is set to premiere on Netflix on July 23. —JCB, GMA News