▲ Actor Lee Dong-hwi, one of the main cast in film "The Roundup: Punishment (The Roundup 4)," appears in this photo provided by ABO Entertainment on April 22, 2024. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

 

SEOUL, April 22 (Yonhap) -- In his quest to hear the words, "Lee Dong-hwi can excel in roles like this," the actor is putting himself on trial. During a recent interview at a café in Jongno-gu, Lee Dong-hwi shared his thoughts on embodying a villainous character in the film 'The Roundup: Punishment (The Roundup 4)' directed by Heo Myeong-haeng.

 

The film, set to be released on April 24, follows the story of Detective Ma Seok-do (played by Ma Dong-seok) as he dismantles a Philippine-based online gambling organization led by former special forces mercenary Baek Chang-gi (played by Kim Moo-yeol).

 

In this movie, Lee Dong-hwi takes on the role of Jang Dong-chul, a mastermind manipulating Baek Chang-gi within Korea's criminal underworld and an IT genius. While Baek Chang-gi stands as the ruthless main antagonist, Jang Dong-chul, with his exceptional intellect, serves as a cunning sub-villain attempting to outwit Baek Chang-gi.

 

Lee Dong-hwi's portrayal of Jang Dong-chul in 'The Roundup 4' marks a departure from his breakout character Dong-ryong in the drama 'Reply 1988,' which left a lasting impression on fans.

 

▲ The still photo, provided by ABO Entertainment and Plus M Entertainment on April 22, 2024, shows actor Lee Dong-hwi in film "The Roundup: Punishment (The Roundup 4)."

 

Speaking about the difference, Lee Dong-hwi mentioned that Jang Dong-chul lacks any comedic elements in the script. He expressed admiration for Park Ji-hwan, who played the comedic character Jang Yi-soo, and admitted feeling envious of such roles.

 

Lee Dong-hwi also highlighted the significance of being offered this role by Ma Dong-seok, with whom he had established a friendship after collaborating on the 2017 comedy film 'The Bros.' He recalled a conversation during their 'Brothers' wrap-up, where he expressed a desire to challenge new characters, and Ma Dong-seok, in turn, remembered and supported him.

 

Reflecting on Ma Dong-seok's proposal, Lee Dong-hwi recalled a phone call while on a bus ride, where Ma Dong-seok asked him to join 'The Roundup 4.' Overcome with emotion, Lee Dong-hwi couldn't hide his excitement and immediately agreed, shedding tears of gratitude.

 

Lee Dong-hwi emphasized his gratitude for Ma Dong-seok's continual support, acknowledging the challenges of transitioning from comedic roles to villainous ones and the opportunities this new role presents for personal growth and exploration.

 

▲ From Left: Actors Ma Dong-seok (Don Lee), Kim Mu-yeol, Park Ji-hwan, Lee Dong-hwi and director Heo Myeong-haeong pose for photos during a press conference for film "The Roundup: Punishment (The Roundup 4)" in Seoul on March 11, 2024. (Yonhap)

 

Furthermore, Lee Dong-hwi expressed admiration for Ma Dong-seok's visionary plans, noting that around 90% of what Ma had envisioned during their 'Brothers' project had come to fruition, including involvement in the 'The Outlaws' series. This experience, coupled with Ma Dong-seok's encouragement, allowed Lee Dong-hwi to realize dreams and ambitions as an actor.

 

Currently, Lee Dong-hwi is actively engaged in both television and film projects, starring as the sarcastic detective Kim Sang-soon in the recently aired MBC TV drama 'Chief Detective 1958.' The role was proposed by director Kim Sung-hoon, with whom Lee had previously collaborated on the film 'Confidential Assignment' (2017).

 

Reflecting on his journey, Lee Dong-hwi shared that despite facing a year-long hiatus before starring in 'Extreme Job' and 'Hangout with Yoo: MSG Wannabe,' he embraced storytelling and independent film projects, returning to his roots and finding inspiration from those who supported him throughout his career journey.

 

▲ This photo provided by ABO Entertainment and Plus M Entertainment is a scene from the Korean crime action flick, "The Roundup: Punishment," starring Ma Dong-seok. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

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