Cover Story: A Character Study of South Korean Actor, Lee Jin-uk
Lee Jin-uk delivers performances that resonate far beyond the screen. His upcoming role in the global phenomenon Squid Game will surely skyrocket his celebrity status to stratospheric heights — we simply cannot wait!
Lee Jin-uk is in a good place. The South Korean heartthrob is set to join season two of Squid Game, the Netflix smash that took the world by storm, and while details about his role are currently being kept hush-hush, global stardom is inevitable. Whether as an idealistic groom-to-be (Welcome to Wedding Hell), a mythical creature cursed with immortality (Bulgasal: Immortal Souls) or a scarred thug battling monsters (Sweet Home), Lee inhabits each persona with energy and delight. Before things accelerate, L’OFFICIEL HOMMES SINGAPORE takes a quiet moment with him to chat about his work.
Hi Jin-uk! What have you been up to recently?
I’ve been busy, occupied with various shoots and filming as usual. I took a short break following the filming of Sweet Home, so I imagine people might be wondering how I am these days. [Laughs]
We’re excited to hear that you’re joining Squid Game. Did you watch the series when it first aired?
Yes, I’ve definitely watched Squid Game. There was a time when it seemed like everyone was talking about it. It’s thrilling to see Korean content gain global recognition and create such a sensation. When I heard that the next season was in the works, I eagerly wanted to be a part of it, so I’m excited to have a role and will give my best effort to deliver a great performance.
“MY FAVOURITE CHARACTER HAS TO BE SANG-WOOK. SPENDING SUCH A LONG TIME IN THE ROLE HAS MADE ME FEEL LIKE WE’VE AGED TOGETHER.”
You will be reuniting with director Hwang Dong-hyuk, whom you’ve worked with on Miss Granny (2014).
I’m actually looking forward to it! [Laughs] I didn’t realise that it has already been that long since Miss Granny was released. I Googled the film recently and burst out laughing when I saw myself looking so young in the movie stills. I have many fond memories from that time, so I’m excited to reunite with Director Hwang after a decade for another great project. Even before his Squid Game casting, Lee was already a Netflix darling. His other recent work on the streaming platform is the 2020 monster horror series Sweet Home, in which he plays Pyeon Sang-wook, a mysterious man with a brutal demeanour. It’s a departure from the melodramatic roles he’s used to, but one that has left a strong impression. The unexpected return of Sang-wook in the final scene of the first season caused rife speculation among viewers, and now with season two on the horizon the anticipation surrounding the character is almost palpable.
Sweet Home 2 is set to release later this year. From what you’ve seen, how excited are you for the new season?
The universe of Sweet Home 2 expands beyond the apartment complex. The scale is larger, with never-before-seen visuals and stories introducing new characters. During the series’ filming, I could feel that the show has become even more intense and powerful. I believe everyone will find it worth watching, and I’m eagerly anticipating the release date.
There’s a lot of discussion surrounding Sang-wook’s status in the season one finale. How do you think fans will react to the character in the new season?
It’s encouraging to see how much people loved Sang-wook in season one. I was also impressed by the discussions about what his next moves might be. As the Sweet Home universe expands, the characters’ narratives will also become more detailed, so fans may find themselves identifying with him even more. I’m already curious to know how you’ll like it, and I’ll be keeping up with the reactions. I’d appreciate it if you could share your thoughts and comments!
Do you enjoy horror genres like Sweet Home and Squid Game?
Regardless of genre, I’ve realised that watching and feeling something can help in my performances. So, I don’t specifically choose which genres to watch; I think the story is more important. I prefer movies and dramas that portray complex and subtle emotions between people.
How well would you do in a survival scenario?
I’m confident that I’ll definitely survive. [Laughs] I just feel like I could. Don’t you think so? [Laughs] I’ve never been in a survival situation, so I’m not really sure. But I believe the most important thing would be to avoid wasting resources unnecessarily, whether it’s to do with life or death, food, weapons, or even which direction to go. It’s about being cautious and moving forward.
Lee is 41, a veteran of South Korean showbiz on the cusp of global fame. He knows a thing or two about traversing the entertainment landscape. Alongside his acting career, he is an ambassador of Montblanc; most recently, he attended the luxury Maison’s “The Library Spirit: Episodes From Around The World” campaign launch in New York. Outside of the glitz and glamour though, Lee is your typical affable guy-next-door, with a particular penchant for cafes and street fashion.
You’ve portrayed plenty of roles over the years. Which has been your favourite, and what roles are you looking to try next?
My favourite character has to be Sang-wook. Spending such a long time in the role has made me feel like we’ve aged together. Lately, I’ve also portrayed immortals or characters with tremendous power [for example, in the 2021 fantasy drama Bulgasal: Immortal Souls], so I’d like to explore more romantic roles in the future. I’m interested in playing classic romance movies.
From your socials, we see that you’re an avid sneaker fan.
Most people start collecting sneakers or toys based on their childhood dreams, and as they become financially comfortable and develop their tastes, they make those dreams come true. For me, collecting Nike sneakers has been a dream since I was young, so when I started earning for myself I gradually began to pick them up one by one.
“IT’S THRILLING TO SEE KOREAN CONTENT GAIN GLOBAL ATTENTION AND CREATE SUCH A SENSATION.”
Any other hobbies that people might not expect?
Nothing too special, really. These days, I sometimes play golf or go fishing. I also enjoy going out with friends to have good food and engage in casual conversation.
Lastly, what does the rest of the year hold for you?
My main goal for the remainder of this year is to shoot Squid Game 2 successfully. Additionally, I’d like to embark on a memorable trip somewhere. I’m not exactly sure what I’ll be doing to create those memorable and happy moments, but I hope to make the time worthwhile. I wish all of you a great rest of the year as well. Please take care, and thank you!
Photography KIM YEONG JUN
Fashion Editor FELIX WOEI
Producer LIANA CHOI
Stylist LEE HA JEONG
Hair PARK NAE JOO / BIT&BOOT
Makeup LEE BOM
Photography assistants SHIN KI JUN,
KIM JI YOUNG, JO YE JIN and JANG HAN BIT
Styling & makeup assistant SON MIN JI
