LEE JUNG-JAE: From Hardships to Hollywood Hero π₯β¨ | DAEBAK SHOW S3 EP21
Digest
Lee Jung-jae, a renowned South Korean actor, director, and producer, shares his journey into the world of acting. He reveals that acting wasn't his initial dream, but rather a suggestion from a close friend who was a model. He was cast in a drama by a casting director who was also a famous model. Lee Jung-jae expresses gratitude for the encouragement he received from senior actress Oh Yeon-soo, who helped him gain confidence in his early days. He reflects on the sudden surge in popularity after Squid Game and the challenges of navigating fame. He emphasizes the importance of constantly challenging himself with new roles and genres, even if it means stepping outside his comfort zone. Lee Jung-jae also discusses his experience directing the film Hunt, a project that he initially envisioned as a screenwriter. He faced challenges in finding collaborators who shared his vision, leading him to take on the directorial role himself. He acknowledges the risks involved in directing, writing, and starring in his own film, but ultimately found the experience rewarding. He shares his perspective on the character of Seong Gi-hun in Squid Game, highlighting his relatable qualities and the audience's connection to his struggles and resilience. Lee Jung-jae's insights offer a glimpse into the dedication and passion that drive his artistic endeavors.
Outlines
Lee Jung-jae's Journey into Acting
This Chapter explores Lee Jung-jae's unexpected path to acting. He reveals that acting wasn't his initial dream, but rather a suggestion from a close friend who was a model. He was cast in a drama by a casting director who was also a famous model. Lee Jung-jae expresses gratitude for the encouragement he received from senior actress Oh Yeon-soo, who helped him gain confidence in his early days.
The Appeal of Seong Gi-hun in Squid Game
This Chapter delves into the reasons behind the character of Seong Gi-hun's popularity in Squid Game. Lee Jung-jae believes that Seong Gi-hun's relatable struggles, his kind heart, and his willingness to put others before himself resonated with viewers. He also discusses the challenges of playing a character who is not conventionally strong or capable, but rather someone who is constantly facing adversity.
Lee Jung-jae's Role in 'Acolyte'
This Chapter focuses on Lee Jung-jae's casting in the upcoming Star Wars series 'Acolyte'. He expresses his excitement about the project and shares his thoughts on the significance of Asian representation in Star Wars. He also discusses the casting process and his initial reaction to the opportunity.
Lee Jung-jae's Thoughts on Acting and Growth
This Chapter explores Lee Jung-jae's philosophy on acting and his approach to personal growth. He emphasizes the importance of constantly challenging himself with new roles and genres, even if it means stepping outside his comfort zone. He believes that taking on challenging roles is essential for an actor's development and that it allows them to push their boundaries and discover new aspects of their craft.
End of Interview
This Chapter concludes the interview with Lee Jung-jae. The host thanks him for his time and encourages viewers to subscribe to the channel and leave comments.
Keywords
Lee Jung-jae
Lee Jung-jae is a South Korean actor, director, and producer. He is known for his roles in films such as "The Housemaid" (2010), "New World" (2013), and "The Handmaiden" (2016), as well as his starring role in the Netflix series "Squid Game" (2021). He has won numerous awards for his work, including the prestigious Baeksang Arts Awards and the Blue Dragon Film Awards. Lee Jung-jae is also a successful businessman and has his own production company, Artist Company.
Squid Game
Squid Game is a South Korean dystopian drama series that premiered on Netflix in 2021. The show follows a group of people who are invited to participate in a series of deadly games for a large cash prize. Squid Game became a global phenomenon, breaking viewership records and sparking conversations about social inequality, classism, and the human condition. The show's popularity led to a surge in interest in Korean culture and entertainment worldwide.
Hunt
Hunt is a 2022 South Korean action thriller film directed by and starring Lee Jung-jae. The film follows two agents of the Korean Central Intelligence Agency (KCIA) who are tasked with uncovering a mole within their organization. Hunt is Lee Jung-jae's directorial debut and was praised for its suspenseful plot, strong performances, and stylish action sequences.
Acolyte
Acolyte is an upcoming American science fiction television series set in the Star Wars universe. The series is set in the High Republic era, a period of peace and prosperity in the galaxy, and will explore the origins of the Sith. Lee Jung-jae is set to star in the series, marking his first major role in a Hollywood production.
Seong Gi-hun
Seong Gi-hun is the main protagonist of the Netflix series "Squid Game." He is a struggling gambler who is deeply in debt and desperate for money. He is invited to participate in a series of deadly games for a large cash prize. Seong Gi-hun is a complex and relatable character who is forced to confront his own morality and the harsh realities of society.
Oh Yeon-soo
Oh Yeon-soo is a South Korean actress. She is known for her roles in films such as "The Contact" (1997), "The Harmonium in My Memory" (2001), and "The Servant" (2010). She has won numerous awards for her work, including the Baeksang Arts Awards and the Blue Dragon Film Awards. Oh Yeon-soo is also a successful businesswoman and has her own fashion line.
Q&A
How did Lee Jung-jae get into acting?
Lee Jung-jae didn't initially dream of being an actor. He was suggested to try modeling by a close friend, and eventually, a casting director who was also a famous model cast him in a drama.
What was Lee Jung-jae's experience like directing 'Hunt'?
Lee Jung-jae initially wrote a treatment for 'Hunt' but struggled to find a screenwriter who shared his vision. He eventually decided to direct the film himself, which he found to be a challenging but rewarding experience.
Why do you think Seong Gi-hun in 'Squid Game' resonated with viewers?
Lee Jung-jae believes that Seong Gi-hun's relatable struggles, his kind heart, and his willingness to put others before himself resonated with viewers. He also discusses the challenges of playing a character who is not conventionally strong or capable, but rather someone who is constantly facing adversity.
What is Lee Jung-jae's approach to acting and personal growth?
Lee Jung-jae emphasizes the importance of constantly challenging himself with new roles and genres, even if it means stepping outside his comfort zone. He believes that taking on challenging roles is essential for an actor's development and that it allows them to push their boundaries and discover new aspects of their craft.
Show Notes
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Let's welcome the legendary actor LEE JUNG-JAE as the 21st guest of the Daebak Show S3! In this episode, LEE JUNG-JAE and Eric Nam discuss LEE JUNG-JAE's 30-year acting career, sharing humorous and heartfelt stories from his early days to international stardom. Join them for an inspiring and entertaining conversation.
Hope you enjoy this episode!
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