South Korean actor Lee Jun-Ki, 34, revealed how he lost 15kg for his role in the upcoming SBS historical drama, "Scarlet Heart: Ryeo." In the show, Lee will play the 4th son of King Taejo (Jo Min-Ki), Wang So, who shrouds his face behind a mask.
During a sit-down interview with Chinese media outlet Sina, as cited by All Kpop, the "Scholar Who Walks the Night" actor said that the process of shedding the weight was a lot of hard work.
"The director wanted me to have a sharp vibe like an injured animal," Lee explained. "So I went on a diet for 5-6 months and lost 15kg."
Though his drastic weight loss is for the upcoming drama, Lee believed that it was a good choice since he became more healthy. He added: "I also feel like I am getting rewarded for the tough times during dieting."
As for his tremendous popularity both locally and international, the actor said that he is not precisely sure what his charms, but rather believed that many like him in light of his portrayal in several dramas and movies in South Korea.
"I think they like me because they love my productions and were touched by them," Lee commented. "Not just my productions, but I am happy that Korean dramas, in general, receive a lot of love."
He proceeded to say that he is living in a blessed time. With this, it apparently makes him think to work harder to give back to his fans.
"Scarlet Heart: Ryeo" is based on the Chinese novel Bu Bu Jing Xin by Tong Hua. Directed by PD Kim Kyu-Tae, the upcoming 20-episode drama follows a 21st-century woman, Go Ha-Jin (IU), who got transported back in time to the Goryeo Dynasty (918 CE) after a total eclipse of the sun takes place.
Go Ha-Jin awakens in the body of 16-year-old Hae-Soo. There, she falls in love with the 4th Prince, Wang So (Lee) aka dog-wolf, who effortlessly makes other people tremble with trepidation.
"Scarlet Heart: Ryeo" will be simultaneously broadcast on Youku and Mango TV in China, LeTV in Hong Kong, ONE TV Asia in Malaysia and Singapore and KNTV in Japan beginning Aug. 29, Hello Kpop reported.
Check out the trailer below: