[Interview①] 'Search' Lee Hyun-wook: "A role with clear opinions and honesty, similar to me"

Hyunwook Lee / Photo by Taeyoon Kim

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Isul] Actor Lee Hyun-wook reflected on 'Search' and found a special meaning in it.

Lee Hyun-wook recently shared various stories in an interview with our publication after the drama 'Search' ended, held at a cafe in Seocho-dong, Seoul.

'Search' (written by Gu Mo and Jo Myeong-ju, directed by Lim Dae-woong) is the fourth project of OCN's Dramatic Cinema, combining the formats of film and drama. The drama tells the story of an elite search team formed to uncover the mystery behind a disappearance and murder case that began in the front-line Demilitarized Zone (DMZ).

Lee Hyun-wook delivered an impressive performance as Lee Joon-sung, a character possessing true soldierly spirit with a humane side.

On that day, Lee Hyun-wook emphasized, "'Search' is a military thriller drama, so the fresh subject matter was attractive. I tried to express the most suitable and sincere portrayal. Since internal conflict was the main focus, I conveyed emotions through my eyes."

Regarding Lee Joon-sung, who embodies true soldierly spirit, Lee Hyun-wook said, "His clear convictions and honest demeanor are quite similar to my own personality."

Lee Hyun-wook revealed that he tried to physically embody his role as the deputy team leader of the special task force through tanning and dieting. He said, "I worked hard to avoid showing any dramatic limitations in the realistic portrayal. As a special task force officer, I couldn't have a soft and urban appearance. As an actor, it is natural to prepare according to the role."

Lee Hyun-wook said, "I lost about 10kg through exercise. My thighs reduced by 1 to 2 inches, and my body fat noticeably decreased. I tanned more than 40 times to get closer to the real Lee Joon-sung."

He also admitted that filming during the COVID-19 pandemic was not easy. 'Search' was filmed at an open set in Pocheon, Gyeonggi Province, following the guidelines of health authorities.

"Since it was an open set, there were no people except essential personnel. All staff wore masks, and actors wore masks except when performing. Although filming took place during the hot summer, everyone followed quarantine rules to prevent the spread of COVID-19."

Lee Hyun-wook is one of the busiest actors this year. After gaining significant attention last year with OCN's 'Strangers from Hell,' he has been continuously active with 'The Good Detective,' 'Search,' and the recently filmed 'Sunbae, Don't Put On That Lipstick.'

"Previously, I played antisocial characters, but through 'Search,' I portrayed a more human character, so I was curious about how it would be received. It became an opportunity to confirm that I can move in various directions. I learned a lot. At the same time, I have more concerns and challenges. I will work harder based on this."

Finally, Lee Hyun-wook gave special meaning to the drama, saying, "'Search' was tough to film during the hot summer, but it will be remembered as a project like a retreat with friends."