So Ji-sub Embraces Action Noir in Netflix's 'Square': A Journey of Dedication and Passion

"Just a few scrapes and bruises," said So Ji-sub, reflecting on his intense action scenes in the action noir series 'Square'. The Netflix series follows Nam Gi-jun, played by So Ji-sub, who returns to the underworld of 'Square' to uncover the truth behind his brother Nam Gi-seok's mysterious death. Based on a popular webtoon, So Ji-sub takes on the role of Nam Gi-jun, who reemerges after 11 years to avenge his brother.

"I love noir. The energy from physical confrontations is exhilarating. The noir genre is rare, with maybe one or two releases a year. I was grateful when the synopsis came my way. Although the most dangerous stunts were handled by professionals, I performed 70-80% of the action myself," he shared.

Approaching 50, So Ji-sub laughed off concerns about performing action scenes at his age. "Fortunately, I finished filming without injuries," he said, adding humorously, "I noticed my body was a half-beat slower than my mind." He also revealed he lost weight for the role, dropping from 95kg to the 70kg range to portray a sharper image as the story progressed.

Married to TV personality Jo Eun-jung, 17 years his junior, for five years, So Ji-sub was asked if his wife worried about his intense action scenes. "I don't really talk about what I'm filming," he laughed. Regarding her thoughts on 'Square', he said, "She seemed to appreciate the hard work, saying, 'It must have been tough.'"

So Ji-sub expressed his deep affection for the action noir genre. When asked if he would take on more intense action roles, he replied, "As long as I'm acting, I want to continue doing noir. Whether there's a lot of action or not, it's a genre that makes my heart race and feel alive."

In 'Square', So Ji-sub stars alongside Lee Jun-hyuk, who plays his brother Nam Gi-seok, a key figure in one of the two major organizations. Lee Jun-hyuk previously expressed his delight at playing So Ji-sub's brother. "I was satisfied too. Although it was a special appearance, he made 'Square' shine. He did it with a sexy flair. I found his way of taking off glasses sexy and told him so, which made him bashfully happy," So Ji-sub recounted with a laugh.

So Ji-sub made headlines for gifting gold to his fellow cast and crew after filming 'Square', a gesture of gratitude that became a hot topic. With gold prices soaring, he chuckled, "I was surprised too." When asked about the quantity, he shyly admitted, "It was quite a lot, enough for most people to receive."

"Since taking on lead roles, I've always given gifts to the staff. This time was no different. I'm grateful for the safe completion of the project, and because of them, I can shine. In the past, I gave other gifts, but people thought they were sponsored. These days are tough, and gold is something you can sell later. But I doubt they'll sell it since I engraved 'Square' on it," he laughed.

So Ji-sub's past work, including the acclaimed series 'I'm Sorry, I Love You', is being revisited on OTT platforms. The drama, which became a cultural phenomenon, is remembered for So Ji-sub's iconic line, "Do you want to eat with me or die?" Reflecting on this, he said, "I watch it occasionally when I need new energy or am contemplating my acting. It's a reminder of the energy I had back then."

"In the past, I felt pressured when asked about 'I'm Sorry, I Love You' and its famous lines, but now I'm grateful. I even perform them when asked. It's a blessing that younger audiences are discovering old dramas," he concluded with a smile.