Lee Se Young - Singles Korea 2020 Interview

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Lee Se Young, Growing Once Again

Through the drama Memorist, which follows the pursuit of a serial killer,

Lee Se Young shows another step in her growth as an actress.

This time, she reveals a cold and rational side of herself.

Q: You’ve been acting for 24 years.

Yet, the label “actress” still feels unfamiliar and awkward to me.

Q: How does it feel to live as an actor?

Nothing special, really. In my daily life, I’m just an ordinary person. It’s only when someone recognizes me on set and asks for an autograph that I’m reminded that I’m a known actress.

Q: As time goes by, it must be getting harder to choose your next projects.

There are still so many kinds of acting I want to try. There are far more roles I haven’t done than those I have. From full-on, physically demanding action to over-the-top comedy, I want to try everything I can.

Q: Do you have any criteria when choosing a project?

I’m drawn to stories that are captivating. Ones where there’s a role I can truly bring to life. Among those, I’m especially interested in characters or themes I’ve never tried before. Both The Crowned Clown and Doctor John, which I worked on last year, were new challenges for me.

Q: In the drama Doctor John, you played a doctor, and in Memorist, you’re taking on the role of a profiler.

I’ve always dreamed of playing a character who leads the story with charisma. Sun Mi was exactly that kind of character, and I thought it was a great opportunity to show a new side of myself.

Q: What are the differences between the drama Memorist and the original webtoon it’s based on?

The drama adds new episodes to the webtoon’s original material and message. Even those who’ve already read the webtoon will find the story more layered and engaging.

Q: Tell us about your character, Han Sun Mi, in the drama.

Sun-mi is an elite profiler and the youngest person ever to achieve the rank of superintendent. She’s extremely cool-headed and logical. She leads a large team under her command, and when she gives orders, she shows firm charisma. She might appear cold on the outside, but deep down, she’s a police officer with a warmer heart than anyone else.

Q: What do you think are the key points viewers should watch for in the drama?

Since Dong Baek, who is played by Yoo Seung Ho, and Sun Mi are complete opposites, their investigation styles are totally different too. The first thing to watch is how these two characters each pursue the criminal in their own ways. The second is the fun of guessing who the culprit really is. Personally, I’d say Sun Mi’s bold, decisive “girl crush” charm is another highlight.

Q: How would you compare yourself to your character?

People around me often say I’m full of energy. I’m not the type to stay still. I’m always moving and doing something. In that sense, maybe we’re a bit alike.

Q: You’re also known for your diligence as you even going to the office during your time off.

I actually have my own desk at the office. It’s a small cubicle-style desk like the ones you see in study rooms. I used to do my school assignments there before I graduated, and I also read scripts there. When I have some free time, I even wash the coffee cups that the staff leave behind. Oh, and I have a business card too it says “Office Lifestyle Team Leader” (laughs).

Q: What are you currently into these days?

Once I start a project, I can’t focus on anything but my character. I’m not the type who can multitask. Aside from taking care of my cat at home, my whole attention goes to the project.

Q: You seem like such a positive person. Do you even have worries?

It would be portraying Sun Mi in the best way possible. Another concern is social media. I really want to communicate with the fans who always support and care for me, but I’m just not good at taking photos. I’m working on it little by little, but it’s still such a hard assignment for me.

Q: Among the works you’ve recently watched, is there a particular work by someone else that left a strong impression?

Carlito’s Way, starring Al Pacino. To me, it’s like the bible of noir films. The acting performances are simply incredible. And the chase scenes are so impressive that it’s hard to believe the movie was released back in 1994. Above all, the final scene, the hope and despair of the protagonist as he tries to overcome his dark past and reach his dream lingered in my heart for a long time. As an actress, it was a deeply inspiring work.

Q: You’re nearing the end of your twenties. How would you like to spend it?

I want to learn how to drive properly (laughs). Since my routine mostly consists of going back and forth between filming sets and home, I haven’t really had many chances. This year, I’m planning to be more determined and make time for it.

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