Rain Embraces Villain Role in 'Bloodhounds 2' Despite Mixed Reviews

For the first time in his career, Rain (Jung Ji-hoon) has taken on the role of a villain, and he remains unfazed by some of the mixed reviews. Deeply immersed in his character, Rain admits that the experience lingered long after filming wrapped, and he humbly accepts the critiques of his performance.

Recently, at a café in Samcheong-dong, Seoul, Rain discussed his role in the Netflix series 'Bloodhounds 2'. The series follows Geon-woo (played by Woo Do-hwan) and Woo-jin (played by Lee Sang-yi) as they confront a global illegal boxing league after dismantling a ruthless loan shark organization. Rain plays Baek-jung, the villain opposing Geon-woo and Woo-jin.

Rain expressed a strong attachment to his first villain role, saying, "It's been about seven months, and I grew very fond of the character, so it took quite a while to shake it off." He added, "There are moments when the character's presence still surfaces."

Rain's wife, Kim Tae-hee, also noticed the change in him due to his deep immersion in the role. "It wasn't my tone, but my eyes that made her ask why I looked that way," Rain shared, noting that the character's influence still lingers. He explained that Baek-jung was challenging to portray because he wasn't a psychopath or sociopath but a character with anger management issues, acting instinctively like a runaway train.

Rain further elaborated, "Baek-jung is a character with almost no backstory, so after being cast, I worked with the director to create his background, including his origins and family." This lengthy process contributed to the lasting impact of the role.

The series also featured several scenes showcasing Rain's physique. He joked, "I think it's time to stop showing my body so much. After this project, I realized that it's tough to maintain such an extreme physique." He added, "I decided to go all out with Baek-jung, like a killing machine. It might be a cliché, but that's the direction I took." Rain gained about 6-7 kg for the role and shared, "I understand why athletes stop working out after retirement. Even a little laziness shows immediately. Now, I maintain a routine, usually finishing meals by 5 PM and substituting with protein shakes afterward."

Rain also expressed his future acting aspirations, saying, "If given the chance, I'd like to play a lazy character who lets himself go. I love eating, so I'd be confident in a role where I have a belly," he laughed. However, he clarified, "I'm not saying I'll completely stop doing roles that require exposure, but I don't want to go to extremes like before."

Regarding some viewers' criticisms, Rain remains composed. "These days, people often judge based on shorts or brief clips. Watching the entire work might change their perspective," he said. "But if they still don't like it after watching, that's an area where I need to work harder. It's a matter of personal taste."

Rain emphasized his dedication, saying, "I have many concerns, but I'm earnest in everything I do. I know I must bear the responsibility for what I receive in return." He continued, "I've learned to approach everything sincerely, so I don't want to show a lazy side." He added, "Sometimes people ask why I'm so intense, but if I slack off, they'll wonder why I'm like that. Among many actors and singers, I believe I must carry this character to the end."

In conclusion, he said, "People often ask why I'm so fiercely dedicated, but it's not about being fierce; it's about doing my best in my position," he laughed.

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