Actor Kim Ji-hoon is actively performing the character of the unmatched monarch Lee Jeong in 'The Haunted Palace.'
On the 17th, in the SBS Friday-Saturday drama 'The Haunted Palace' (written by Yoon Soo-jung, directed by Yoon Seong-sik), which aired up to episode 10, Kim Ji-hoon plays King Lee Jeong and is responsible for the exciting core of the story. Depicting the strong and solid side of the reform-minded monarch Lee Jeong, Kim Ji-hoon has shown a new charm by appropriately mixing his unique charisma with wit and composure.
In particular, to defeat the Palchukwi, which has threatened the royal family for many years, Lee Jeong, Kang Cheol-yi (played by Yook Sung-jae), and Yeori (played by Kim Ji-yeon) have begun serious cooperation, continuing a tension-filled storyline. As the episodes progress, the heavy presence of Lee Jeong has overwhelmed viewers and highlighted his 'king moment.'
◆ The monarch fighting against adversity, a strong desire for reform and the dilemma of an absolute ruler
Lee Jeong's firm resolution to abolish the slave system and create a strong country for the people has been repeatedly hindered by court officials. However, Lee Jeong never became discouraged by numerous obstacles and actively sought out Choi Won-woo (played by Ahn Nae-sang) to pave the way for radical reform. The scene where Lee Jeong tries to punish the evil shaman Maeng-cheong only to face opposition from his officials, while trusting Yeori but having to keep her at a distance, revealed the king's dilemma and touched the hearts of viewers. Kim Ji-hoon drew viewers in by embodying the trustworthy figure of King Lee Jeong, who grows stronger through adversity, through his gaze and expressions.
◆ Lee Jeong, the lover who spares no effort for the one he loves
In front of the royal heir suffering from illness, Lee Jeong becomes a small father, and when his wife is in crisis, he unhesitatingly jumps into danger, revealing an unexpected side. Kim Ji-hoon masterfully captured the character's transformation, oscillating between a cautious demeanor that restrains emotions and a bulldozer-like attitude that disregards others' opinions once he confirms the safety of his loved ones. In particular, the scene where he accepts becoming bait for the Palchukwi at Kang Cheol-yi's direction and asks, 'What does the queen need? Because she is in danger,' was enough to confirm Lee Jeong's deep and fervent love.
◆ Spectacular martial arts and sharp observations, starring the 'exorcism trio'
Starting to actively participate as a leading role of the exorcism trio, Kim Ji-hoon enhanced the quality of the production with action performances born from his tremendous effort. The scene where he cleverly saves Kang Cheol-yi, who was trying to rescue him and consequently fell into danger, illustrated Lee Jeong as a genius monarch known for his relentless hard work. Furthermore, as he gradually grows closer to Kang Cheol-yi while tracking the Palchukwi, his bittersweet expression regarding the loyal official Yoon Gap (played by Yook Sung-jae) raises curiosity about how their relationship will develop. Kim Ji-hoon's brilliant performance delicately expressed Lee Jeong's internal conflicts, including his strong will toward exorcism, sense of responsibility towards the royal family, and affectionate camaraderie with Kang Cheol-yi.
Thus, Kim Ji-hoon is redefining his career character as Lee Jeong, a character with a black hole-like charm, in 'The Haunted Palace.' He successfully depicted the character's dimensions from multiple perspectives through an understanding of the inner aspects needed to portray a wide range of emotions and through visual impact via makeup.
[Photo] Captured from the broadcast of SBS 'The Haunted Palace.'
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