Actor Kang Hoon expressed his thoughts about the ending of 'Hunter with a Scalpel.'
In the mid-form drama 'Hunter with a Scalpel,' which concluded on the 10th from LG Uplus STUDIO X+U, Kang Hoon took on the role of Jeong Jeong-hyun, the newly appointed head of the violent crimes unit in Yongcheon, who believes that human nature is good and pursues the truth of the case, showcasing a new side of himself.
Kang Hoon realistically depicted a detective character who approaches investigations with passion and conviction after his first assignment, and delicately expressed Jeong-hyun's complex emotions that waver between trust and suspicion in collaboration with forensic expert Seo Se-hyun (played by Park Joo-hyun). The raw action scenes as well as the emotional acting that portrays the character's inner self earned Kang Hoon acclaim from viewers, boasting an expanded acting range even in a genre piece.
Below is a Q&A conducted by his agency, Enpio Entertainment, to mark the ending of 'Hunter with a Scalpel.'
Q. First, could you share your thoughts on the ending of 'Hunter with a Scalpel'?
It was really cold on set last winter, but I had a great time creating the project with warm and wonderful people. I think all those memories will remain in my heart for a long time. I would like to sincerely thank everyone who watched the drama.
Q. This was your first challenge in a genre piece, and there are many reactions that say we saw a new side of Kang Hoon. What are your thoughts on that?
I don't think I was consciously aware of it being a genre piece while filming. I tried to understand the character Jeong Jeong-hyun in the drama and continued to study to express that well. While watching the drama, I think it was a project through which I met different aspects of myself in various moments.
Q. Were there any specific aspects you were particularly mindful of in portraying the character Jeong Jeong-hyun?
The aspect I was most mindful of was how to portray a person who graduated from the police academy and started as an officer before being appointed as the head of the violent crimes unit. Especially considering the background of a local police station was something I couldn’t overlook. Although I might be perceived as young and inexperienced, I thought my character is someone who acts with the conviction that 'this is how a police officer should be.' I also thought a lot about how to act in a situation where I was feeling disregarded and what kind of attitude I should show in that context. So, I think I paid a lot of attention to my mentality when acting.
Q. Considering your role as a detective in the violent crimes unit, there were many intense action scenes. Was there anything difficult about that?
Honestly, I can't say I'm not afraid; however, I always think that being scared can lead to getting hurt. There might be moments of hesitation, but once I overcome that, the fear disappears, and I tend to perform even better. Also, I noticed that moments of gaining confidence while doing action scenes often led to injuries, so I always remained cautious during those times. While action is challenging, it's so much fun that I often find myself wanting to learn more.
Q. Is there a scene that stands out in your memory?
There are so many memorable scenes, but among them, the moment I discovered Se-eun in the drum was particularly unforgettable. It was a moment that Jeong-hyun had promised to Director Seo Se-hyun, and fulfilling that promise made it stand out in my memory.
Q. From romance to historical dramas and thrillers, Kang Hoon is showcasing various sides of himself. Are there any genres or roles you'd like to challenge yourself with in the future?
I always want to continuously work on projects. I chose the profession of an actor, and there have been times when I wanted to act but couldn't, so I always feel thankful for the opportunity to be working on a project like this. Therefore, if given the chance, I would like to continue doing what I love, regardless of the genre or role.
Q. How do you think 'Hunter with a Scalpel' will be remembered for you, Kang Hoon?
I think it will be remembered as a project I shot happily with wonderful people. We filmed intensely as a team for a short period, which built a great bond among us. And I believe it will remain a significant project where I learned a lot—not just as an actor, but also in living my life.
Q. Lastly, could you please greet the viewers who loved 'Hunter with a Scalpel' and Jeong Jeong-hyun?
Thanks to the viewers who enjoyed watching, I was able to feel happiness beyond words for over a month. I truly appreciate all the love, and I will continue to show good sides of myself! Thank you!!
[Photo] Provided by STUDIO X+U.
[OSEN]