Heo Sung-tae Takes on First Lead Role in 'The Informant' After 15 Years in Acting

Heo Sung-tae, known for his powerful performances in films like 'The Age of Shadows' and 'The Outlaws', as well as the global hit series 'Squid Game' and 'Casino', has taken on his first lead role in the film 'The Informant' after 15 years in the acting industry. Despite his impressive career, Heo humbly considered a lead role to be premature. However, he embraced this opportunity and is fully committed to promoting the film, even using mental techniques by imagining himself as actors like Won Bin and Stephen Chow during action scenes.

On the 24th, Heo Sung-tae was interviewed at a café in Samcheong-dong, Seoul, about his role in 'The Informant'. The film is a crime action comedy about a demoted ace detective, Oh Nam-hyuk (played by Heo), and an informant, Jo Tae-bong (played by Jo Bok-rae), who get entangled in a big scheme. Heo's character, Oh Nam-hyuk, is a detective who has lost his passion and investigative skills after a failed project and is waiting for retirement.

Originally, Heo worked in corporate roles at LG Electronics and Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering before debuting as an actor through SBS's 'Miracle Audition' in 2011. Reflecting on his first lead role, Heo admitted, "I initially declined the offer, thinking it was too soon." He added, "I never aspired to be a lead; I just wanted to do my best in each role. I've been fortunate and blessed with good people around me."

Heo eventually decided to take the role after meeting with the film's producer and director. "The producer had a successful track record with films like 'The Yellow Sea', and the director's passion for cinema was evident. The director doesn't reveal everything in the script, so meeting them was crucial. Their enthusiasm convinced me to accept the role," Heo explained. He felt a sense of destiny with the project, stating, "It wasn't a signal of a blockbuster hit, but it felt like a fateful project."

Heo found comfort in the comedic aspects of the film, working closely with the director to balance the humor without overdoing it. During action scenes, he used mental control techniques, imagining himself as actors like Won Bin and Stephen Chow, which he believes enhanced his performance. "I was satisfied with how I looked on screen, although I'm definitely not Won Bin," he laughed.

Heo shared a behind-the-scenes story about filming in a dusty abandoned factory, which added to the film's authenticity. "We shot an action scene on the second floor, and the dust was so thick that it naturally enhanced the scene without needing artificial dust effects," he said.

Despite his quick memorization of action sequences, Heo admitted that maintaining stamina was challenging. "People think I'm good at action, and I am, but my stamina doesn't keep up," he joked, adding that he's been working out diligently.

Drawing from his corporate experience, Heo actively contributes to the film's marketing efforts. "This is my first lead role, and while promoting it is enjoyable, it's also a bit daunting," he confessed. Heo applies his marketing skills from his time at LG Electronics, often reaching out to the production and PR teams with ideas, even late at night.

Heo's promotional efforts include a 'dance challenge' on social media, which has drawn mixed reactions. Fellow actor Lee Si-eon humorously commented, "I can't stand seeing his Instagram anymore." Despite this, Heo remains committed to doing what he can for the film's success, acknowledging that while the outcome is up to fate, he must do his part.

'The Informant' is set to release on the 3rd of next month.

Reported by Kim Ji-won, TenAsia bella@tenasia.co.kr