Actor Ryu Hae-jun portrayed the youngest detective's face realistically, projecting a weighty presence on home screens.
In episodes 7 and 8 of the ENA Monday-Tuesday drama Scarecrow aired on the 11th and 12th, Ryu Hae-jun played Park Dae-ho, the youngest detective at Gangseong Police Station, and quietly depicted his deep loyalty to senior Kang Tae-Ju (Park Hae-soo) and his realistic anguish, drawing viewers into the story.
In the drama, whenever his respected senior Tae-ju was in danger, Dae-ho silently stayed by his side. Even when Tae-ju broke down in anger at Cha Si-young's (Lee Heejun) mother's funeral and everyone avoided him, only Dae-ho remained at Tae-ju's side to support him.
In particular, when Tae-ju was accused of abusive conduct and faced disciplinary action in connection with the death of suspect Lee Ki-beom (Song Geon-hee), Dae-ho could not hide his worry as if it were his own and showed the "innocence of the youngest detective." Ryu Hae-jun increased the drama's appeal by expressing his sympathy for his senior and his frustration with the unfair situation through an understated, steady performance.
In episode 8, Dae-ho's complex and subtle psychology reached its peak. The serial murder investigation hit obstacles, and ultimately Tae-ju left the police station. Dae-ho received the honor of the "1988 exemplary public servant award," but his expression was darker than ever.
Amid joyful colleagues, Dae-ho's face, appearing as if dazed alone, piqued viewers' curiosity. The senior he admired left unfairly while he himself received an award, and the powerlessness and anger from that contradiction were conveyed intact through Ryu Hae-jun's delicate facial acting.
Ryu Hae-jun gave his own color to a youngest detective character that could have seemed ordinary. He proves his growing acting ability each episode by conveying Park Dae-ho's sincerity in every tone and action. His "understated depiction," in which he restrains rather than explodes with emotion, is said to be the main contributor to the drama's sense of realism.
As episodes progress, Ryu Hae-jun has become one with the Park Dae-ho character, and expectations are rising about what kind of role he will play at the police station now that Tae-ju has left.<
[Photo] "Scarecrow"
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