In the fantasy thriller Death's Game, Kim Ji-hoon portrays the character Park Tae-u, who initially comes across as kind and considerate. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Tae-u's true nature is far from benevolent. He is an entitled chaebol with no regard for others or the value of human life. Tae-u's ability to disguise his murderous instincts behind a façade of empathy makes him a captivating and despised villain, especially when portrayed by Kim Ji-hoon.
Before taking on the role in Death's Game, Kim Ji-hoon had already made a name for himself in the entertainment industry, appearing in numerous TV dramas and a few films. His portrayal as a serial killer in the 2020 thriller Flower of Evil earned him critical acclaim and a nomination for Best Supporting Actor at the 57th Baeksang Awards. This role further expanded his fan base. He continued to challenge himself by playing a sex trafficker in the 2023 film Ballerina. It seems that playing dark and complex characters has become Kim Ji-hoon's forte, and he attributes his success to the intense effort he puts into understanding and embodying these roles.
Creating a truly scary and memorable character was Kim Ji-hoon's goal in Death's Game. He found it enjoyable and rewarding when viewers expressed their fear of his scenes. To achieve this, he delved deep into the script and meticulously prepared for his role. By incorporating his own life experiences and drawing inspiration from what he had seen and heard, Kim Ji-hoon transformed the two-dimensional Park Tae-u into a three-dimensional character. He likened the process to a 3D printer, where the script served as the blueprint that he repeatedly studied and refined.
In Death's Game, Tae-u's path intertwines with the various incarnations of Yee-jae, played by a talented cast including Lee Do-hyun, Choi Si-won, Jang Seung-jo, Lee Jae-wook, Oh Jung-se, and Kim Jae-wook. One of the most memorable encounters is with another psychopath, portrayed by Kim Jae-wook, who may just be even more deranged than Tae-u himself. These interactions result in blood-splattered scenes that showcase both Kim Ji-hoon's villainous side and his vulnerability.
Adapted from the Naver webcomic Yije Got Jookseummida, Death's Game offers a gripping storyline that explores the consequences of suicide. The protagonist learns that his choice to end his life has a profound impact on those who cared for him. Kim Ji-hoon found this message meaningful and felt that it resonated with people across different races and countries. He believed that the drama had the power to potentially save lives, making it a project he was eager to be a part of.
For Kim Ji-hoon, the most enjoyable aspect of acting lies in the opportunity to take on new challenges with diverse casts and in various projects. Embracing the initial anxiety and tension that each new role brings, he finds immense satisfaction in the rewards and accomplishments that follow. This drive continues to fuel his passion for acting and shapes his career choices.
Death's Game, now available on Prime Video, is a thrilling and thought-provoking drama that showcases Kim Ji-hoon's talent for portraying compelling and dark characters. Whether you love to hate him as Park Tae-u or admire his acting prowess, this series offers an engaging and unforgettable viewing experience.
