Kim Sung-cheol Takes Over Yoo Ah-in's Role in 'Hellbound 2'...
"Felt Enormous Pressure but Faced It Boldly"

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Actor Kim Sung-cheol, who plays Jeong Jin-soo in Netflix's original series 'Hellbound 2', opened up about his honest feelings toward the character.

Released on October 25, 'Hellbound 2' is the sequel to the 2021 hit 'Hellbound'.

Kim drew attention by taking over the role of Jeong Jin-soo, the founder of the New Truth Society, previously portrayed by Yoo Ah-in.

"If I didn't feel pressured about playing Jeong Jin-soo, I wouldn't be human," Kim admitted.

"We're always on trial in this profession, but this time it feels like a public execution," he added candidly.

Despite the pressure, he chose to take on the challenge because "I was a fan of 'Hellbound' and director Yeon Sang-ho, and the character was so compelling that I couldn't resist."

In developing the character, Kim actively referred to the original webtoon.

He made a conscious effort not to imitate Yoo Ah-in's previous performance but to infuse his own interpretation.

"I first thought about why Jeong Jin-soo became the leader of the New Truth Society," he explained.

"I interpreted it as him wanting to share the fear and pain he experienced with others."

His dedication to the role is evident in his physical transformation.

Kim lost 10kg over five months for the role.

On days off from filming, he hiked mountains every morning.

On shooting days, he maintained an intense regimen by cycling 40–50km from the Paju set to his home.

"I felt that a lean appearance was necessary.

I wanted to look as emaciated as possible," Kim said.

"When he first resurrects, I wanted his look to reflect not just pain but a face that has suffered greatly." He also shared his conviction as an actor: "Not just this time, but I always want to make choices without regrets."

Kim's filmography includes many roles that require expressing extreme emotions.

Regarding this, he said, "I have a desire to convey emotions and scenes that people can't experience in everyday life as realistically as possible." He added, "I feel exhilaration when I've poured out all my emotions and reached a state of emptiness."

However, he also expressed a willingness to take on romantic or light-hearted characters.

"I definitely want to try it once before my face gets more worn out," he joked.

Nevertheless, his next project is the lead role in the musical 'Jekyll & Hyde', challenging himself once again with an intense character.

Reflecting on his acting journey, Kim said, "When I was in school, they didn't give me lead roles."

He recalled, "But when I let go of that desire, I was given more diverse and responsible roles." He added, "Sometimes I feel it's more than I deserve, but I'll continue to show better performances," expressing his expectations for the future.

Through this interview, Kim Sung-cheol has once again proven his sincerity and passion as an actor.

Despite the strong impression left by Yoo Ah-in in the previous season, Kim successfully breathed new life into the character of Jeong Jin-soo with his own interpretation and thorough preparation.

His passionate performance in 'Hellbound 2' serves as a prime example of Korean actors' deep approach to their characters and dedicated preparation processes.

Anticipation is growing for the diverse transformations and new challenges he will showcase in the future.