Rising Star Lee Jin-woo Talks Role Models, Acting Aspirations, and Overcoming Challenges

"My role model has always been my father. Watching him remain neutral and help those in need taught me a lot. I aspire to be an actor who spreads positive influence, just like my compassionate and calm father."

Recently, I had the opportunity to sit down with Lee Jin-woo at the Ten Asia office in Jungnim-dong, Seoul. Lee recently took on his first serious acting role in the Genie TV original drama 'Namib,' which concluded on the 28th of last month. He also appeared on the web variety show 'Hong Seok-cheon's Jewel Box,' where he mentioned that his father resembles Brad Pitt.

'Namib' tells the story of Kang Soo-hyun (played by Go Hyun-jung), a star producer who gets fired, and Yoo Jin-woo (played by Ryeoun), a long-term trainee who is released, as they pursue their respective goals. In the drama, Lee Jin-woo plays Shim Jin-woo, the only son of Kang Soo-hyun and Shim Joon-seok (played by Yoon Sang-hyun), who lost his hearing in an accident during childhood.

Lee Jin-woo expressed his honor in working with "the celebrity among celebrities," Go Hyun-jung. When asked about which actor he would like to work with next, Lee mentioned Song Hye-kyo, saying, "I recently watched 'The Black Nuns' with great interest. Watching Song Hye-kyo, I thought she resembled my mother."

Although he admitted that meeting Song Hye-kyo might be a big dream, he remains open to the possibility, having already acted alongside Go Hyun-jung. Lee agreed with the reporters' suggestion that "it's good to dream big," and reiterated his aspirations. He marveled at the opportunity to work on projects like 'Queen Seondeok' and 'Secret Garden,' which starred Yoon Sang-hyun, saying, "It was amazing to be part of such works."

When asked how he would remember 'Namib,' Lee said, "It will remain a beautiful youth," expressing his affection for the project. He added, "Working with senior actors and excellent staff made it particularly meaningful. I would describe 'Namib' as a 'luxurious first button.'" He acknowledged the competitive nature of the industry, saying, "There are so many talented people, which serves as great motivation."

"Balancing singing and acting is a huge help. In idol performances, facial expressions are crucial, and the experience I've gained from practicing has positively influenced my acting."

Born in 2004, Lee Jin-woo is a member of the group Ghost9 and graduated from Hanlim Multi Art School's Practical Dance Department before enrolling in Dongguk University's Theater Department. He shared that pursuing a university major in acting significantly fueled his passion for acting.

Lee recalled, "Preparing for short-form filming and the theater department entrance exam simultaneously increased my desire and affection for acting." He added, "Having a family member in musical theater provided valuable support. Through various experiences related to acting at university, I became deeply enamored with the profession."

Lee also opened up about experiencing a challenging period in his life. Reflecting on the 2023 survival show 'Peak Time,' he admitted, "It was a really tough time," showing visible emotion.

"I think that was my first adolescence. I relied heavily on those around me. I found solace in deep conversations with my member Prince. I can't leave out the stories from Yoon Sang-hyun, whom I met through 'Namib.' He has been a great help, offering life advice."

When asked if he is okay now, Lee nodded with a smile, saying, "Yes." He added, "No matter how hard it gets, I can't give up when I think of my parents," revealing that his parents are cabbage farmers in Haenam.

Lee's decision to pursue acting was entirely his own, not influenced by his agency. He expressed his determination, saying, "I'm very thirsty. I want to work harder to increase my recognition and build confidence."

Lee, who loves nature, expressed his desire to appear on the variety show 'Earth Marble World Travel.' He said, "I also want to experience 'Three Meals a Day' and 'City Fisherman.' Having come from Haenam, I'm confident in nature-friendly variety shows," his eyes sparkling with excitement.

"I'm just grateful for the overwhelming support. I only want to give back. I enjoy reading the playful comments from fans, so please keep them coming and continue to show love. Thanks to you, I gain strength and inspiration. You are the driving force of my life."

Lee So-jung, Ten Asia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr