InterviewPark Ji-hoon breathes new life into tragic Joseon monarch in 'King's Warden'

Actor Park Ji-hoon / Courtesy of Showbox

Singer and actor Park Ji-hoon is taking a major step in his acting career with his big-screen debut, portraying one of Korea’s most tragic monarchs in the historical film "The King’s Warden.”

Taking on the role of deposed King Danjong (1441–57) of the 1392-1910 Joseon Dynasty, the 26-year-old actor felt a deep respect for the character and the weight of portraying a historical figure who led a lonely and difficult life.

"I was honestly scared when I first received the offer. I wondered if I could truly understand the heart of King Danjong, who lost his family and felt such emptiness," Park told The Korea Times, Tuesday. "I questioned whether I could express that depth of emotion in my first movie."

Actor Park Ji-hoon, center, performs as Joseon Dynasty King Danjong in a scene from the film “The King’s Warden.” Courtesy of Showbox

“The King’s Warden” tells the story of the dethroned king during his exile as he forms unexpected bonds with villagers and Eom Heung-do, the village's head played by veteran actor Yoo Hae-jin. Through these relationships, the film explores how a fallen monarch finds the will to live once more.

While history remembers him as a boy king who was deposed by his uncle and met a sorrowful end, the movie offers a fresh perspective. Instead of dwelling on his overthrow, the film zooms in on the young king’s life in exile in a remote village.

Park emphasized that he wanted to portray Danjong not just as a victim but as a figure with dignity.

"In many historical dramas, Danjong is often depicted as a weak child. I wanted to express him differently," Park said. "I wanted to show that even in exile, he carried the dignity of a legitimate king. I tried to change my voice from a soft, young tone to a deeper and stronger one as the character grew more mature."

The actor also spoke about his chemistry with his co-lead actor, Yoo. Park said he learned a great deal about acting just by observing Yoo on set.

"I realized that acting is about giving and taking energy. At first, I was nervous about whether I could match his energy, but we became close by talking about small daily topics like when I will perform my military duty and things about life, such as how to stay in shape," Park said.

Actor Park Ji-hoon portrays Danjong, a Joseon Dynasty king, in the upcoming movie, “The King’s Warden.” Courtesy of Showbox

To fully immerse himself in the role of a king in distress, Park shed roughly 15 kilograms over two and a half months, transforming into a man who had lost everything in exile.

“I wanted to look painfully thin to show how much he was suffering. It was not just about looking thin but about embodying the character's situation where he could not eat due to his suffering," he explained.

Park hopes that his interpretation will allow audiences to understand the character’s emotions more clearly.

"I hope the audience will watch the movie and feel deep sympathy for the character. If they can look at him and feel his pain and hardships, I think that would be the biggest success for me," Park said.

Actors Park Ji-hoon, left, and Yoo Hae-jin in a scene from “The King’s Warden” / Courtesy of Showbox

Park has been receiving praise for his growth as a solid actor, especially following his impressive performance in the hit series "Weak Hero."

Critics praised his debut performance, noting that he holds his own even alongside veteran stars like Yoo and Yoo Ji-tae, who portrays the powerful villain.

He was particularly praised for his eyes, which effectively capture the dignity of a king as the story unfolds. Regarding the compliments on his expressive gaze, the actor said he now views it as his unique strength and professional "weapon."

"I think of it as my own advantage. Instead of feeling burdened by it, I want to see it as a weapon I can use in my acting. While I used to feel pressured by such praise, I now try to embrace it as a strength," Park said.

Regarding his future steps, Park said he wants to continue challenging himself with diverse roles.

"I want to try everything regardless of the genre. I am especially interested in playing a strong villain role in the future. I am just grateful for the flow of my career and the opportunities to work on good projects," he said.

“The King’s Warden” will be released in theaters on Feb. 4.