Seoul: Lee Jung-jae, renowned for his role in the globally acclaimed series "Squid Game," is adjusting to his newfound international recognition, even as he is frequently recognized by fans in foreign countries.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Lee shared his thoughts with reporters in Seoul, reflecting on how the overwhelming success of the Netflix series has influenced his approach to acting, directing, and producing. He expressed a desire to create content that resonates across various cultures, emphasizing that high-quality content can achieve global reach without Hollywood involvement. Lee's portrayal of Gi-hun in "Squid Game" showcases a compelling transformation from a flawed individual to a resolute character challenging the very games that ensnared him.
To authentically depict Gi-hun's despair, Lee lost 10 kilograms during filming, aiming to manifest the character's hopelessness after failing to convince other contestants to abandon the deadly games. Lee mentioned the pressure to convincingly portray his character due to the series' global popularity, stating that if he were in Gi-hun's situation, his appetite would have likely diminished as well.
Throughout the filming process, Lee pondered the concept of death, questioning the essence of a good life and a dignified death. He mused about dying with a clear conscience and peaceful mind, considering these as markers of a good death. Despite the intense themes, Lee refrained from revealing much about the series' ending, respecting the vision of writer-director Hwang Dong-hyuk.
Lee hinted at the thoughtful consideration that went into the series' conclusion, acknowledging that multiple ending versions were debated. As a seasoned actor with three decades in the industry, Lee is now shifting his focus from "Squid Game" to future projects. He is set to co-star with Lim Ji-yeon in a new romantic drama on tvN, provisionally titled "Annoying Love," underscoring his commitment to moving beyond past successes and engaging in new creative endeavors.