Following a captivating photoshoot with W Korea magazine, Lee Jae Wook sat down to offer a deeper look into his life, both on and off the screen.
Currently engrossed in filming the anticipated Netflix series Hong Rang (working title), Lee shares how this historical venture marks a significant departure from his previous roles. “Venturing into the traditional historical genre with ‘Hong Rang’ after ‘Alchemy of Souls’ has been both challenging and enlightening, prompting me to modify my voice and regularly use formal speech to better align with my role,” Lee explains.
Currently, Lee Jae Wook is impressing global fans with his engrossing performance in the Disney Plus drama The Impossible Heir. Talking about why he opted for the project, he commented: “In the first scene of part one, Teo is holding an ice pick. After that scene, which shows the present, the story transitions into the past. I was drawn in because I wanted to find out why Teo was standing there covered in blood, what he had done, and how he ended up in that situation. Plus, I was interested in portraying a character whose life we follow from their school days all the way to adulthood.”
When discussing the portrayal of characters driven by intense desires, Lee emphasizes empathy and connection. He bridges his own experiences and aspirations, such as the longing to collaborate with renowned director Bong Joon Ho, to his characters, using these parallels to deepen his performances. “If Teo has the corporate world, I might substitute it with Cannes in my mind. It’s about focusing on that intensity of yearning. Looking back at moments of sincere longing in my life helps me draw out those emotions for my role,” he states.
Lee also opens up about personal deficits. “Ever since I was young, I’ve always wanted to do so many things. I’ve mentioned in interviews before that I used to enjoy collecting clothes and shoes as a hobby, not so much anymore, though. But recently, I’ve discovered a new kind of void (laughs),” he shared. “I noticed I don’t skimp on spending when it comes to food. Looking back, I think this, too, stems from a sense of deprivation. There were many times in the past when I had to restrain myself from eating what I wanted, and being an actor requires certain dietary restrictions, so there were a lot of things I couldn’t eat. That’s why I eat to my heart’s content when I can.”
As the only male in his family, Lee portrays himself as “the fatherly son.” Lee remarks, “I feel my family leaning on me, and there’s this growing desire to never collapse under that weight. For example, even if they ask me if I’m having a hard time, I’ll just brush it off with, ‘Ah, what’s there to be hard about?’ Even in moments like that, I want to be their pillar.”
When faced with difficulties, Kim admits to embracing challenges rather than seeking solace or escape. “I enjoy dealing with tough situations. I’m not one to dwell on stress. I believe in doing my best within my capabilities, living by the mantra ‘This too shall pass.'”
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