Actor Song Ji-ho delivers a compelling performance in the drama 'Beloved Thief'.
In the third episode, aired on the 10th, Song Ji-ho's character, Hong Dae-il, captures attention with a shocking reaction upon discovering that his father, Hong Min-jik (played by Kim Seok-hoon), returned wedding gifts to the royal family. Song Ji-ho's portrayal of Hong Dae-il, who confronts his father about his failure in the civil service exam while lamenting over Eun-jo, effectively reveals the character's materialistic yet human nature.
In a subsequent scene, Hong Dae-il subtly defends Eun-jo by advising others not to mention her while congratulating Im Jae-i (played by Hong Min-ki) on his success. His realistic portrayal of a drunken stumble into the courtyard of the Hye Min Seo, tripping over a stone, provided ample comedic relief.
In the fourth episode, aired on the 11th, Hong Dae-il, inebriated, inadvertently exposes Eun-jo's engagement to Yi Yeol (played by Moon Sang-min) by referring to Im Jae-i as "our in-law," playing a pivotal role in escalating tensions among the main characters.
While looking at Eun-jo's wedding attire, Hong Dae-il recalls hearing from Im Jae-i that Eun-jo is to marry a septuagenarian, leading to significant emotional turmoil. Song Ji-ho's performance, transitioning from a self-centered character to one tormented by this revelation, effectively conveyed a new dimension of the character to the audience.
Additionally, in a scene where he bids farewell to his father at the city gate, Hong Dae-il harshly tells Eun-jo, "Take care of your own fate," masking his guilt with anger, showcasing a classic 'tsundere' performance. Later, upon seeing Eun-jo dressed in her wedding attire, he is moved to tears, remarking, "Even the queen's crown would not be enough," demonstrating a restrained emotional performance that highlights the growth of his character.
Meanwhile, KBS2's weekend drama 'Beloved Thief' airs every Saturday and Sunday at 9:20 PM.
Reporter: Kim Se-ah, TenAsia haesmik@tenasia.co.kr