Sandeul, currently starring in the musical 'Death Note' (produced by Shin Chun-soo), spoke about his journey to landing the role. "I didn't have much experience with auditions, so I faced many rejections. But just when I was eager to give it my all, the opportunity came," he recalled.
First premiered in 2015, 'Death Note' celebrated its 10th anniversary last year. Sandeul joined the cast for the first time this season. "The 10th anniversary holds symbolic significance, and the predecessors who performed before me are considered 'legends.' I felt the pressure of living up to that," he admitted. Yet, he remained optimistic, saying, "I decided to trust the script and myself. With the support of my fellow actors, I believed it would be okay."
Even four months into the performance, the tension remains. "I don't feel relaxed. I practice with the same mindset every day and think I should maintain this attitude," he said.
'Death Note' is based on the Japanese musical produced by Horipro in 2015. It tells the story of Light, who discovers a Death Note and seeks to eradicate evil, and L, the detective pursuing him in a battle of wits.
Sandeul plays the role of L, a genius detective who uncovers the truth while concealing his identity. Instead of mimicking L's physical traits, Sandeul focused on understanding the motivations behind his actions. "L has unique gestures, like biting his nails or crouching while deducing. I pondered the fundamental reasons for these behaviors to understand the character," he explained.
Debuting in 2011 as a member of B1A4, Sandeul has long been associated with a bright image. "Many see me as having a pure image, which made the role of L even more appealing," he said. "I was worried about how the audience would perceive it, but I wanted to break the mold. I felt that would earn their trust for future roles," he added.
"'Death Note' might be the work that showcases me as an actor to many. I've realized I can take on such roles, and I feel my range has expanded."
Despite his achievements, Sandeul remains critical of himself. "Even four months in, I don't feel 100% fulfilled. There's a lingering emptiness," he confessed. "It's frustrating not knowing exactly what's missing. I give my all on stage, but I feel I haven't fully portrayed L," he lamented.
Having debuted in musicals with 'Brothers Were Brave' in 2012, Sandeul is now in his 13th year. Yet, the stage remains challenging. "My perspective has broadened, but the initial nerves are still there. It's partly due to my ambition," he said.
His aspirations are clear. "I think it's coolest when an actor is seen as the character the moment they step on stage. I'm striving to become such a figure."
Sandeul sets high standards for himself. "I genuinely want to be the best," he emphasized. "I know it's ambitious, but I want to excel more than anyone. To achieve that, my standards for myself must be high."
Finally, he expressed his hopes for the future. "When 'Death Note' returns to the stage, I hope future actors playing L will wonder, 'How did he pull that off?'" He continued, "I've seen many reviews saying the performance was 'thrilling.' It's not easy to evoke such feelings in a single show. I hope those who see my performance leave with that thrill."
By Da-yeon Jeong, TenAsia Reporter light@tenasia.co.kr