In an industry that thrives on the new and the novel, actor Lee Kyu-hyung’s recent reflections on the conclusion of tvN’s weekend drama “The Cunning Folk” provides a poignant insight into the emotional and professional journey of an actor immersed in the world of historical drama. On March 3rd, 2024, through his agency Ace Factory, Lee Kyu-hyung opened up about his experiences and the bittersweet farewell to a project that marked many firsts in his career.
Embarking on his first-ever historical drama, Lee Kyu-hyung admitted to the initial awkwardness and tension of adapting to the long beards and traditional attire required for his role. However, it was the camaraderie and support from co-stars such as Eom HyoSeob, Jo SungHa, Son HyunJoo, Jang YoungNam, Baek SeokGwang, and Yang KyungWon that transformed this challenge into a memorable and enjoyable journey. Lee Kyu-hyung’s reflections reveal not only the personal growth that accompanies such roles but also the collective endeavor that underpins successful storytelling in Korean drama.
Perhaps most touching is Lee Kyu-hyung’s candid sharing of how location shoots felt like joyous picnics, highlighting the preciousness of each moment and the lingering sense of loss as the project came to a close. His gratitude towards the viewers and his colleagues is palpable, underscoring the deep connections forged through the shared endeavor of bringing a story to life.
In “The Cunning Folk,” Lee Kyu-hyung delivered a riveting performance as Park Jong-hwan, the ambitious uncle to the protagonist Lee In, played by Cho JungSeok. Park Jong-hwan’s descent into villainy culminated in a dramatic and tragic end, met on March 2nd’s broadcast, marking a high point in Lee Kyu-hyung’s portrayal of complex characters. The actor’s ability to evoke fear, tension, and an overwhelming sense of immersion through his nuanced portrayal of malice and ambition speaks volumes of his acting prowess.
Lee Kyu-hyung’s journey through “The Cunning Folk” has left an indelible mark on his career and on the hearts of viewers. As this chapter closes, the anticipation for his next venture grows, promising more captivating performances that showcase the depth and versatility of one of Korea’s most talented actors.
