Ji Sung is challenging himself with a role as a drug addict for the first time since his debut and has surprised fans with his drastic weight loss.
On the afternoon of the 24th of May, the production presentation for the new SBS Friday-Saturday drama ‘Connection’ was held at SBS headquarters in Mokdong, Seoul. Director Kim Moon-gyo and actors Ji Sung, Jeon Mi Do, Kwon Yool, Kim Kyung Nam and many more attended the event.
‘Connection’ tells the story of ace narcotics detective Jang Jae-kyung (played by Ji Sung) who is forcibly addicted to drugs by someone and unravels the twisted friendship and connections that have lasted for 20 years, starting from the death of his friend.
Director Kim Moon-gyo explained that he had a lot of concerns about the drug addiction theme, saying, “The theme is timely, but when broadcasting on terrestrial TV, I thought we should handle it carefully.”
He added, “As someone who makes videos, I struggled between wanting to properly express and show the serious issues and professional ethics as a member of society who believes that such issues should not be shown for entertainment purposes.”
Ji Sung, who is taking on the challenge of playing a drug addict for the first time in his career, said, “The fact that a detective from the narcotic crime investigation team is addicted to drugs itself was new to me. As I imagined how to portray that character, I was halfway inclined to choose the role. Additionally, the composition of the character itself was different. I am the character who appears the most and carries out the investigation among all the characters, and I was curious about their acting, which is illuminated.”
Regarding the difference from previous genres, Ji Sung shared, “I have thought about it, but it was difficult to anticipate until we started shooting. However, during the filming process, I realized that I have matured in genre films and gained a different energy. You will be able to see that through the screen.”
Ji Sung also underwent a rigorous weight loss for his character. He said, “I gained weight up to 85kg [187 lb] while taking care of my child, but I lost 15kg [33 lb]. I started filming at 70kg. As a result, my stamina was significantly lacking, and I experienced severe aftereffects. I tried to turn those aspects into acting.”
Regarding the portrayal of drug addiction, Ji Sung said, “I thought of it as a ‘mind control’ where I have to act while also acting differently. I portrayed the process of me, who tries to overcome drugs, and me, who tries to enjoy drug addiction, fighting in confusion. I also tried to do it by inhaling the smoke instead of just exhaling it. Sometimes, I felt like I would faint due to hyperventilation, but no one noticed. I acted in a way that balances my performance without endangering my life and family.”
“Connection” aired on May 24.
Are you planning on watching Ji Sung in “Connection”?
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