Lee Jae Wook: A New Definition of Masculinity in Fashion and Film

In an eye-catching feature for Singles Korea's May issue, actor Lee Jae Wook participated in a photoshoot that challenged the conventions of traditional male fashion. With the theme "Redefining Masculinity," Lee embraced a series of bold style choices, including one-shoulder tops and unique colored lenses, staged against a backdrop of vintage cars and vibrant flowers. This creative setting underscored the photoshoot’s theme, drawing enthusiastic reactions from the crew and setting a new standard for male fashion in the entertainment industry.

During his interview with Singles Korea, Lee Jae Wook opened up about his experiences transitioning away from his role as Han Tae Oh in Disney Plus’s The Impossible Heir. Lee discussed the emotional challenges associated with such intense roles, stating, "I generally try to keep my characters separate from my everyday life. Even though it can be challenging after emotionally intense scenes, I don’t hold onto the character’s emotions." This distinction, he explained, is crucial for his emotional well-being and professional integrity.

Lee further shared insights into the lingering effects of his roles on his personal behavior. "Tae Oh is a restrained character, hiding his feelings and maintaining composure. Now, I’m trying to shed some of the habits I picked up while playing him. I noticed how I covered my mouth when I was talking," he detailed, revealing the subtle but significant impact his characters can have on his personal expressions and mannerisms.

Despite his rapid ascent to fame, Lee candidly admitted to feelings of nervousness and self-doubt that accompany the onset of each new project. "I always feel nervous and anxious on set, especially at the start of shooting a new character. I constantly question whether I have grasped the director’s vision correctly, or if I am truly embodying the character I want to portray," he confessed, illustrating his deep commitment to his craft and the psychological challenges it entails.

An interesting habit Lee mentioned was his method of getting into character through sensory experiences, particularly scent. "Choosing a fragrance that matches the character helps with the excitement of a new role and fosters a sense of belonging to the character," he explained. This unique approach not only aids him in defining his performance but also enhances his personal connection to each role.

Addressing how he is perceived, Lee acknowledged that his careful manner of speaking often leads others to view him as more mature. He reflected on his heightened awareness of his public persona, especially given his increased visibility. "People often say I appear more mature than my age. I think it’s because I usually try to speak carefully," Lee stated, linking his speech to perceptions of maturity. He also discussed the responsibility that comes with public recognition, noting, "Now, more people recognize me, and I spend a lot of time on recorded sets, which has made me more cautious in how I speak."

Lee Jae Wook's journey to stardom began with his acting debut in the science fiction thriller Memories of the Alhambra (2018–2019), quickly establishing a name for himself. He gained further popularity through the office romance Search: WWW (2019), followed by his big-screen debut in The Battle of Jangsari (2019). His career trajectory continued upward with roles in the school series Extraordinary You (2019) and the melodrama When The Weather Is Fine (2020). Lee's versatility shone as he took on his first lead in the romantic comedy Do Do Sol Sol La La Sol (2020), and later, he captivated audiences with his role in the hit fantasy period drama Alchemy of Souls (2022) and its sequel Alchemy of Souls: Light and Shadow (2022–2023). These roles not only showcased his acting prowess but also solidified his status as a prominent figure in the evolving landscape of Korean entertainment.

Lee Jae Wook's involvement in Singles Korea’s innovative photoshoot not only highlights his adaptability and influence as an actor but also his role in challenging and expanding the portrayal of masculinity in South Korea’s entertainment landscape. Through his thoughtful reflections and innovative fashion choices, Lee continues to influence and inspire audiences both on-screen and off.

 Source: Single Korea

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