Lee Dong-hwi Reflects on Challenges and Controversies Ahead of 'Method Acting' Release

Actor Lee Dong-hwi reflects on his tumultuous journey leading up to the release of his film 'Method Acting.' From dealing with injuries and shingles to addressing recent controversies over his alien costume and Song Min-ho's attendance at the film's premiere, Lee shares his thoughts.

On the 16th, at a café in Samcheong-dong, Seoul, Lee Dong-hwi, the lead actor of 'Method Acting' (directed by Lee Ki-hyuk), shared his experiences. The film, based on a short film of the same name, is a meta-comedy about a 'funny actor' who wants to be taken seriously and becomes overly immersed in his role. Lee plays a character named 'Lee Dong-hwi,' offering a unique blend of reality and fiction.

Lee expressed his feelings about the film's release, saying, "Every moment from the process to the release feels like a miracle. I often doubted if the film would ever be released, so the fact that it is happening feels miraculous."

He also opened up about the difficult times he faced due to an injury last year. "I was in the emergency room on December 31st. I was supposed to perform in a week, but I couldn't inform many people because of my condition," he recalled. "I wondered how my life would unfold starting the new year like this."

Lee admitted there were moments of despair, thinking the film's release was uncertain. "When I heard the release date while recovering at home, I cried. It was a moment of realizing that good things can happen," he said.

Regarding his health, Lee shared, "I injured my back again, the same spot I hurt 20 years ago. Recovery isn't easy at my age, and I couldn't perform for about a month, which was tough."

He continued, "Initially, I thought it was just muscle pain, but the pain worsened, leading me to the hospital. It started in my left leg and spread, marking a challenging period."

Lee also addressed the reactions to his alien costume on the final episode of KBS 2TV's music talk show 'The Seasons-10CM's Touch.' "I feel like I caused trouble in many ways," he admitted.

"I didn't know it was the last broadcast and felt really sorry. I wasn't aware I was the first to do such a costume on 'The Seasons.' I had promised the production team to do something special if I appeared again, and they encouraged me," he explained.

He added, "I wanted to expand my film character into a secondary persona, but it didn't work out. I realized how amazing those who maintain such personas are and felt my ambition might have been too much."

Lee shared the reaction of his agency's head, actor Lee Je-hoon, regarding the alien costume. "Watching Je-hoon, I realized how challenging it is to take responsibility. I'm grateful he allowed me to proceed with the costume," he said.

"He has been very supportive, but I feel sorry for causing any trouble," Lee added with a smile.

Finally, Lee addressed the controversy surrounding Song Min-ho's attendance at the premiere. On the 13th, Song Min-ho, a member of the group WINNER, attended the 'Method Acting' premiere amid his ongoing legal issues. Speculation arose that Lee had invited him due to their close friendship.

Lee clarified, "I didn't invite him personally. I found out on the day of the event. It was an unexpected visit," he emphasized.

'Method Acting' is set to release on the 18th.

Kim Se-ah, Ten Asia Reporter haesmik@tenasia.co.kr