[INTERVIEW] Jung Il-woo breaks new ground in his career with first queer role (2024)

[INTERVIEW] Jung Il-woo breaks new ground in his career with first queer role (1)

Actor Jung Il-woo as Luis Molina in the play, "Kiss of the Spider Woman" / Courtesy of RedNblue Entertainment

By Pyo Kyung-min

Acclaimed for his endearing performances in romantic series, actor Jung Il-woo has returned to the theater after a five-year hiatus. In a bold move, the actor bravely steps into his first queer role in the play "Kiss of the Spider Woman."

Having risen to instant stardom with his debut in the 2006 sitcom "High Kick!" Jung has cemented his status with leading roles in dramas such as "Moon Embracing the Sun" (2012) and "Cinderella with Four Knights" (2016).

Despite his established career, Jung's recent decision to tackle the play "Kiss of the Spider Woman" highlights the actor's commitment to diverse and challenging roles.

[INTERVIEW] Jung Il-woo breaks new ground in his career with first queer role (2)

The poster for the play "Kiss of the Spider Woman," starring actor Jung Il-woo as Luis Molina / Courtesy of RedNblue Entertainment

Adapted from the 1976 novel by Argentine author Manuel Puig, the play explores philosophical themes including love, identity and resilience as it narrates the complex relationship between two contrasting jail mates, Luis Molina and Valentin Arregui.

In this production, Jung assumes the role of Molina, a man who believes he is a woman and gradually forms a deep connection with Valentin.

During a recent interview with The Korea Times at a café in Jongno District, Wednesday, the actor reflected on his portrayal of the character, sharing insights into his careful preparation.

"Molina, the first queer role in my career, is a complex character. He encompasses both inner strength and vulnerability," Jung said.

"Taking on this role demanded significant dedication. I began by adjusting my voice to a higher pitch and perfecting subtle, dainty gestures to portray Molina's essence."

The actor revealed that he crafted his interpretation of Molina as he drew inspiration from acclaimed performances, including Eddie Redmayne's portrayal in "The Danish Girl" (2015) and Leslie Cheung's compelling role in "Farewell My Concubine" (1992).

"Molina's gestures and nuances have now become so natural to me that they appear in my everyday life ... After the performance, even when spending free time with my friends and family, these subconscious behaviors just surfaced," he said.

[INTERVIEW] Jung Il-woo breaks new ground in his career with first queer role (3)

Actor Jung Il-woo as Luis Molina in the play, "Kiss of the Spider Woman" / Courtesy of RedNblue Entertainment

The true challenge for Jung was conveying his character's profound feelings for Valentin.

In the play, Molina, who holds no interest in politics, is constantly looked down upon by his cynical inmate Valentin, imprisoned due to his involvement in socialist movements. Despite their contrasting backgrounds, they slowly develop a connection through their shared vulnerabilities, leading to a romantic relationship.

Jung elaborated that he saw Molina's affection for Valentin as akin to maternal love.

"I grappled with defining the depth of Molina's love. I almost experienced a breakdown just before the performance because I couldn't pinpoint an answer," he recalled.

"In the end, I concluded that Molina's love resembles the unconditional love a mother feels for her child. Initially, I questioned why Molina would so selflessly sacrifice himself for his lover, but as I truly immersed myself in Molina's character, I came to understand the essence of his love."

The 36-year-old single said he hasn't encountered such profound love in his own life yet, but added, as he chuckled, "If I happen to encounter someone who offers such depth of affection, perhaps I won't hesitate to marry."

[INTERVIEW] Jung Il-woo breaks new ground in his career with first queer role (4)

Actor Jung Il-woo as Luis Molina in the play, "Kiss of the Spider Woman" / Courtesy of RedNblue Entertainment

"Kiss of the Spider Woman" marks Jung's return to the theater stage after a lengthy five-year hiatus, following his stint in "The Elephant Song" in 2019. Regarding his decision to return with this play, he said the play felt both "irresistible and profoundly challenging."

"Theater, I believe, is one of the most demanding mediums. It's almost like going back and forth between heaven and hell," Jung said.

"Particularly with 'Kiss of the Spider Woman' being a two-hander, the extensive dialogue was almost daunting. I believe it's essential for the audience to delve into and connect with the meaning of the lines as deeply as the actor does. Thus, I still strive to imbue each line with my best possible effort."

Nevertheless, he views the ability to perform onstage in front of live audiences as the hallmark of a "true actor."

"I believe as an actor, one should possess the ability to command a play for hours on end or even longer. Personally, that's what truly makes me feel alive as an actor," he said.

[INTERVIEW] Jung Il-woo breaks new ground in his career with first queer role (5)

Actor Jung Il-woo / Courtesy of Studio 252

Despite his proven acting prowess, Jung continually seeks growth in his skills. He also shared that he maintains a rigorous standard for himself, describing his approach as almost "self-flagellating."

"To be honest, I've never felt like I'm a 'good' actor. After each performance, I may find solace in completing it without mistakes, but that doesn't make me feel a sense of profound accomplishment," he said.

"I truly believe that continuous growth comes from pushing oneself relentlessly, to the extent it almost feels like self-harm ... My debut piece ['High Kick!'] set the stage for who I am today, but I believe it's my hidden efforts that have truly sustained my career. In any profession, if you don't challenge yourself, you won't grow, it's that simple.

"Without putting in the effort, luck can only take you so far. That's why I'm excited to take on roles like Molina, ones that I've never tried before."

“Kiss of the Spider Woman” runs until March 31 at the Yegreen Theatre in Daehangno, central Seoul.

[INTERVIEW] Jung Il-woo breaks new ground in his career with first queer role (2024)
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