[On the Record] Jinihan's Act 2 "Both Acting and Love Are Desperate"

'Oasis' Manok Role Interview
Successful Return to Home Screens After 5 Years
Significant Contribution to Ratings Boost

Actor Jin Ihan [Photo by IHQ]

Actor Jin Ihan (44·Kim Hyunjoong) was bright. The greedy image from the drama was nowhere to be seen as he sat at the interview table with a radiant smile. Returning to the small screen after 5 years, he recently made a strong impression as the hunting dog Omanok, who holds the key to revenge, in the recently concluded KBS2 drama "Oasis." Announcing a successful comeback, he opened the second act of his acting career.

Meeting with Asia Economy at a cafe in Nonhyeon-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, Jin Ihan said, "'Oasis' viewers' reactions like 'Manok is despicable' and 'When will she die?' made me happy," adding, "I am more satisfied than I expected."

"Oasis" depicted the story of youth who fiercely threw themselves into protecting dreams, friendship, and first love during the turbulent times in South Korea from the 1980s to the 1990s. It ended on the 25th with a record-breaking highest viewership rating of 9.7% in the final episode.

Jin Ihan stood out playing the villain who obeyed Hwang Choongseong (Jeon Nomin) and pushed Lee Doohak and Choi Cheolwoong to the edge. He was praised for driving the drama's plot to the brink and boosting ratings. He said, "Since it was my first drama in a while, I was worried about how I would be perceived. I tried my best to immerse myself in Manok."

Role Racing Toward Ambition, Lost 12kg

Actor Jin Eehan [Photo by IHQ]

Jin Ihan reunited with director Han Hee, who directed "Doctor Jin" (2012) and "Empress Ki" (2013?2014). He said, "The director lets actors move freely. He allows actors to comfortably perform what they have prepared and points out if it doesn't fit the work." He added, "I am grateful to have been given a great role to deliver excellent acting this time as well."

Although he originally had a sharp appearance, he lost weight due to the burden of playing a villain. He dropped from 77kg at the start of the drama to 65kg, losing a total of 12kg. Jin Ihan laughed, "I didn't want to lose that much." He continued, "Manok had to be sharp. A chubby appearance didn't suit the role, so I lost weight. I was maintaining 70kg but lost another 5kg during filming. I was satisfied with the look that matched the character."

The role was not easy. It was a character running toward ambition. It was difficult to determine how much weight the character should carry and how far to push it. He said, "At first, it was hard to decide whether to portray the character heavily or lightly like a thug, so I consulted a lot with the director. I saw the character as someone running toward ambition in the 1980s?1990s and didn't particularly focus on the villain aspect. I portrayed him more chic than like a thug."

Jin Ihan shared, "It was a work I enjoyed acting in. I worked freely and happily as I wanted."

A Pause as an Actor, Lifelong Driving Force

Actor Jin Ihan [Photo by IHQ]

Jin Ihan gained the strength to run again as an actor over the past five years. He spent time nursing his sick father and recharging as an actor. The break became his driving force. He said, "I want to act regardless of genre." He added, "Whether it's a villain, comedy, sitcom, or any genre or role, I can do well," showing his determination.

He said, "Acting is not a job you do for a day or two and quit. Since I will act for life, my dream is to walk steadily without rushing."

Previously, Jin Ihan had declined appearances on variety shows like "I Live Alone" and "We Got Married," but now his mindset has changed. He said, "In the past, I rejected many variety show appearances because I didn't know what to do in front of the camera, but now I want to do it. I want to gradually and naturally show my true self." He added, "People around me say they want to know the real me. They feel sorry. I have various sides to me," appealing.

In an interview a few years ago, Jin Ihan mentioned that his childhood dream was to become a comedian. He laughed, "I haven't given up yet." He said, "I am originally a funny person. I am shy and hard to get close to, but once you get to know me, people say I have a surprising charm. Being the youngest at home, I also have a mischievous side."

Ideal Type is an Attractive Woman, Wants to Marry

Actor Jin Eehan [Photo by IHQ]

Jin Ihan, who debuted in 2004, will mark 20 years as an actor next year. He laughed, "I want to get married these days. Within next year." Despite his complaints, he has never had a single scandal. When this was mentioned, he said, "Maybe I should have some scandals," adding, "I like women, but sometimes I was misunderstood." He continued, "I want to meet a good person soon."

Currently single, Jin Ihan said, "I like attractive people. The most important thing is having matching chemistry when talking." He added, "I think love is about respecting and accepting the other person as they are without trying to change them. If you try to make them fit you, it can lead to fights and misunderstandings, so that's the most important."

Having brilliantly opened the second act of his life as an actor, Jin Ihan runs toward another goal. He said, "Honestly, I haven't even reached half of half the way. I need to work harder. I will take responsibility and work hard to show a good side as an actor."