‘Squid Game’ star Anupam Tripathi lands first lead role in Korean film ‘Rhapsody for the Dead’
Anupam Tripathi / Courtesy of Lee Do-young GODA Studio
Indian actor Anupam Tripathi, best known for his role as Ali in the hit series “Squid Game,” is stepping into a new chapter of his career as the lead in the Korean mystery film “Rhapsody for the Dead.”
In a recent interview, the actor opened up about the turning points that shaped his journey, revealing both personal struggles and professional aspirations.
In “Rhapsody for the Dead,” Tripathi plays Anuat, a man haunted by a horrific past and hidden secrets, who crosses paths with Soo-ah (played by Im Do-hwa), a young woman cursed to die when she turns 25. The story unfolds over a single night, leading the two characters to confront a chilling destiny.
Tripathi said he was surprised when the director offered him the leading role.
“I asked why they chose me,” he recalled. The director said they saw a new side of him after watching “King the Land” that went beyond what people knew from “Squid Game.”
“It’s the first time a Korean movie is being released with me as the lead actor," he added. "For an Indian actor, this isn’t something that happens often, so I’m both excited and nervous.”
Known for his warm and kindhearted screen image, Tripathi said he had long been told he couldn't play villains because of his gentle looks and expressive eyes. But with “Rhapsody for the Dead,” he wanted to challenge that perception.
“Anuat allowed me to show a new side of myself,” he said. “I wanted viewers to feel a strange sense of depth, as if my gaze was reaching beyond what they could see on the screen.”
Working with Im Do-hwa and love for K-pop
Anupam Tripathi / Courtesy of Lee Do-young GODA Studio
Tripathi co-stars with Im Do-hwa, a former member of K-pop group AOA, who is also known by her stage name of Chanmi. He recalled their collaboration on set, saying, “We communicated comfortably, asking questions and giving each other advice. The staff and actors made the entire filming experience a wonderful memory.”
The actor also expressed admiration for K-pop artists. “Singers who have worked hard for their dreams since childhood are incredible,” he said. “I didn’t even know what I wanted to do until I was 19. K-pop artists inspire so many people, and I think that’s amazing. I listen to BLACKPINK’s song ‘Jump’ these days.”
While “Squid Game” brought him international recognition, Tripathi revealed that his real turning point came years earlier. He moved to Korea in 2010 to pursue his passion for acting but faced intense struggles in 2015.
“That winter was a very difficult time for me,” he said. “I had to tell myself, ‘You’ve worked hard. You need to show people who you are. Your time will come.’ Without that encouragement, the Ali you know today might not exist.”
Tripathi said his ultimate goal is to continue expanding his craft: He wants to see his name included in nomination lists at every awards ceremony. He also hopes to explore filmmaking, directing, writing books and even creating a one-man show in the future.
“The greatest award for me is people’s love,” he said, adding that he wants to keep showing new sides of himself through different roles.
“Rhapsody for the Dead” premiered in Korea on Aug. 27 and marks the beginning of a new chapter in Tripathi 's career — one where he hopes to inspire audiences both in Korea and around the world.
This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.