Lee Je-hoon on Acting, Aging, and Self-Worth: “Judge Me by Impact, Not Income”
Actor Lee Je-hoon has opened up about his personal philosophy toward acting and how he approaches fees and career longevity, sharing honest reflections in an interview with SPOTV News on April 14.
The Success of “The Art of Negotiation”
Fresh off the success of JTBC’s “The Art of Negotiation,” in which he played legendary negotiator Yoon Joo-no, Lee expressed pride in being seen as a “cost-effective” actor. The drama’s final episode achieved its highest ratings, with director Ahn Pan-seok’s nuanced touch and the cast’s performances receiving wide acclaim.
“I think I’m a cost-effective actor who delivers solid results,” Lee said. “I prioritize mutual success with the production, without overextending myself. I adjust my appearance fee depending on the project’s condition and never go beyond what’s appropriate. It’s always about aiming for a win-win.”
As an actor currently filming both “Signal 2” and “Taxi Driver 3,” Lee emphasized that he chooses roles not for prestige but for the opportunity to contribute meaningfully. “I want to be the kind of actor who appeals to people because they know I give everything for the project. Whether through my past work or word of mouth, I hope people can feel that commitment.”
Laughing, he added, “Maybe they think, ‘This guy is cost-effective and delivers well,’ and from a business angle, that’s a good thing.”
Lee Je-hoon’s Acting Philosophy
Despite his busy schedule, Lee revealed he has no plans to retire. “I don’t think, ‘I’ll do this one last project and retire at my peak.’ I want to act until the day I die. I don’t want to be judged by how much I cost, but by how valuable I am. I want to keep shining through my work and remain someone with worth as an actor.”
Reflecting on the uncertainties of freelance life in the entertainment industry, Lee shared, “Even if I want to keep working, if no one hires me, I’d be retired whether I like it or not. But I really want to remain someone who’s useful. I’m aging like everyone else, but I want to age well and keep taking on great roles, like Al Pacino or Robert De Niro playing strong grandfather characters. That’s what I aspire to, and I’ll work hard to get there.”
Lee Je-hoon’s grounded approach to his craft and career longevity continues to earn him respect from peers and admiration from fans alike.
