‘Squid Game’s Wi Ha-jun Would Love to Work with Christopher Nolan

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Wi Ha-jun has made a mark with standout supporting performances in “Gyeongseong Creature” and “Little Women”, but it was his role in the popular show “Squid Game” that truly catapulted him to fame. In this series, he takes on the character of Jun-ho, the younger sibling of Lee Byung-hun’s character, who is known as the Front Man within the show.

In Season 2, we find Jun-ho recuperating in the hospital following his survival from a gunshot injury and a fall off a cliff during the first season. Not long after, he encounters Gi-hun, portrayed by Lee Jung-jae, who had previously emerged victorious in the game. This encounter propels Jun-ho on a fresh quest to discover where another perilous game is being hosted.

In our conversation, we talked about his experience playing Jun-ho on ‘Deadline’ throughout two seasons. He shared how playing a character over multiple seasons allowed him to develop as an actor. “It was my first time portraying the same character for such an extended period, and it taught me to appreciate and truly comprehend him,” he said.

As a fervent admirer, what truly captivates me about Jun-ho is his unwavering commitment to justice, even amidst the tumultuous emotional turmoil with his brother. I can’t help but express my profound respect for this remarkable individual who is prepared to risk everything for truth and justice. In these challenging times, it’s individuals like him that we desperately need more of, and I feel compelled to share this sentiment.

In addition to his current endeavors, Wi harbors ambitions towards the world of Hollywood. Emulating the success of fellow actors Lee Byung-hun and Lee Jung-jae, he yearns for the opportunity to collaborate with esteemed directors such as Christopher Nolan. “I have a deep respect for Christopher Nolan,” Wi expressed, further stating his desire to bring Korean action cinema to life under Nolan’s guidance in an upcoming action film.

In the second series of Squid Game, actor Wi stepped into the demanding physical roles of character Jun-ho. His portrayal underwent a change, with him growing a beard and shedding some pounds to fit his character’s narrative. He found the challenging hospital scene, where Jun-ho awakens next to his mother, both hard yet fulfilling.

Director Hwang Dong-hyuk provided Wi crucial suggestions to ensure a ‘balance’ in Jun-ho’s emotional acting performance. Wi acknowledged that although Jun-ho encounters personal hardships, he should remain committed to his objective. Wi stated that the director’s instructions on striking an emotional balance for the character were instrumental in helping him with the role.

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2025-01-14 16:14