"It wasn't exactly homework, but I honestly wanted to break away from 'Haerong.' While I am grateful, it also made me think that I need to work harder. I was conscious and had many concerns about the 'drug acting' in 'Boss.' In the end, I trusted the director's words, and the results were sufficiently convincing."
The star of the last press interview for 'Boss' (directed by Ra Hee-chan), which was the box office winner during this year's Chuseok holiday, was the hidden card, Lee Gyu-hyung (42).
Meeting him at a cafe in Samcheong-dong on the afternoon of the 20th, he greeted the reporters with a bright smile. Unlike the usual interviews held before a movie's release, he appeared relaxed as he had already completed a successful run.
"I am grateful that many people came to watch during the long holiday," he shyly began, adding, "I was happy and proud to see the theaters packed with audiences and to hear them laugh a lot during the stage greetings."
He continued, "The film industry is still facing difficulties, but fortunately, we surpassed the break-even point (1.7 million) and are on track to reach 2 million, so I am very grateful and can breathe a sigh of relief. Honestly, I was very worried because I couldn't predict the audience's preferences, the theater situation, and various variables, but thankfully..."
"We had a lot of fun filming together, but I was worried because the audience's expectations and desires might differ. When what we intended resonated with the audience, it was truly exhilarating. It was incredibly moving and joyful. (laughs)"
'Boss' is a hilarious chaos of candidates dreaming of a second life after leaving behind a glamorous gangster lifestyle. Jo Woo-jin plays the second-in-command of the organization, Soon-tae, who wants to become a chef at the nationwide famous restaurant 'Mimiru,' while Jung Kyung-ho plays the free-spirited Kang-pyo, the rightful heir who dreams of being the best tango dancer. Park Ji-hwan plays the only one wanting the boss position as Number 3, Pan-ho.
In this, Lee Gyu-hyung plays Tae-kyu, an undercover cop who infiltrates as a delivery person for Mimiru, delivering a powerful high kick and forming an ensemble. He is truly responsible for the hilarious twists in the latter half.
He performed the most risqué (?) comedic scene in the film, saying, "Honestly, I was quite taken aback when I first saw the script. It was very burdensome."
He continued, "There were many scenes that could easily become cringeworthy and embarrassing, but since the actors I worked with were all veterans, we were able to create an ensemble that exceeded expectations thanks to their excellent ad-libs and vivid reactions. Initially, we prepared some somewhat excessive setups and had many concerns, but in the end, I decided to trust the seniors on set and go with my instincts. I just went for it. Ultimately, it all fell into place well," he humbly stated.
"Jo Woo-jin is truly a leader with outstanding leadership, a delicate and tireless energizer with infinite positivity. Park Ji-hwan is sweet, contrary to appearances. Jung Kyung-ho is cheerful and a charm in everything he does."
He also showcases his drug addict character 'Haerong' from the tvN drama 'Prison Playbook' with his unique acting and speech.
Regarding this, he said, "As an actor, I felt some pressure from overlapping colors of my previous character, and of course, I had a desire to break away completely. So I tried to approach it more seriously," adding, "The director seemed to want me to bring some of 'Haerong's' color. The situation matched, and it could maximize the humor code. It went through a process of compromise to reach the current form."
"It wasn't exactly homework, but I honestly wanted to break away from 'Haerong.' While it is a grateful and honorable character, it also makes me think that I need to work harder as an actor. I was more conscious and had many concerns about the 'drug acting' scenes in 'Boss.' In the end, I trusted the director's words, and the results were sufficiently convincing. I think it was an excellent choice."
Additionally, he shyly smiled, saying, "I often hear that I look cold and scary when I am expressionless, and I think people particularly enjoy it when I do comedy."
Another 'twist character' who surprised the audience, Jung Kyung-ho, also appeared with Lee Gyu-hyung in 'Prison Playbook.'
Lee Gyu-hyung said, "He may not show it, but he is actually a very funny friend," expressing deep trust, "Kyung-ho and I are the same age and have a deep connection. He is a naturally cheerful and diverse character, so I was very excited when I read the script. As expected, he did well."
He added, "I think he used all his weapons to capture fun, edge, and personality. Thanks to that, the overall harmony and ensemble were better," conveying his sincerity.
He also actively showcases various aspects beyond just comedic acting.
Having been part of the organization for 10 years, Tae-kyu's innocence, who has become emotionally attached to his fellow members, is expressed with a sharp gaze and a weighty tone when conducting undercover investigations as a basic cop. He blends a caring side, worrying that no one in the organization would know his true identity, showcasing his charming versatility.
"Personally, I try to show a different face in the next project after finishing one. Like all actors, I always seek novelty and want to challenge various characters."
In fact, following 'Boss,' Lee Gyu-hyung will continue his activities on stage with the original musical 'The Man in Hanbok' in December and the 10th-anniversary musical 'Fan Letter.'
"I truly love the creative process of preparing for the stage. It is a proud and exhilarating thing to see Korean original musicals receiving great love and recognition overseas. It feels surreal. No matter what, I don't want to let go of acting in media; the stage is my hometown and base. There is a catharsis and charm, a dopamine that is so different from being in front of the camera. I believe it is an irreplaceable area in this industry where AI is rapidly advancing. That's why I feel even prouder."
