In a cozy café located in Samcheong-dong, Jongno-gu, Seoul, renowned actor Lee Je-hoon sat down with Ten Asia to discuss his latest role in MBC’s Friday-Saturday drama "Chief Detective 1958."

This prequel to the popular series “Chief Inspector” dives into the life of Detective Park Yeong-han, played by Lee, who specializes in apprehending petty thieves and stands against corrupt powers, becoming a detective for the people.

"Chief Detective 1958" showcases Detective Park Yeong-han's journey alongside three unique colleagues. The drama emphasizes common sense and justice, presenting an engaging narrative set against the backdrop of 1950s Korea.

Lee Je-hoon spoke passionately about his involvement in the drama and shared his broader views on the current state of the entertainment industry. Lee expressed concerns about the downturn in both drama and movie productions.

“It seems the same for dramas as it is for movies. Over the past few years, the number of productions has noticeably decreased,” he noted. Lee attributes this decline to a lack of compelling stories.

While we need to look at the overall industry to pinpoint the cause, as an actor, I simply think it might be due to good stories are disappearing. As someone who participates in storytelling, it makes me feel a sense of duty to create good stories. There needs to be content that people want to see, but it seems like things are becoming more standardized, which is something I reflect on.”

The actor’s insight into the necessity for innovative storytelling highlights a critical issue facing the entertainment industry today. Lee’s dedication to creating meaningful content underscores his commitment to revitalizing the industry.

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Lee also discussed the impact of the pandemic on the way audiences consume movies.

“During the pandemic, it became easier to access movies. However, the most moving experiences for me came from watching films in theaters. The focus, lingering emotions, and impact were some of the greatest joys and happiness in life. It’s unfortunate that such opportunities are becoming rarer.”

In an era where streaming has become the norm, Lee’s nostalgic recollection of theater experiences resonates with many who miss the traditional cinematic experience.

Lee’s love for cinema extends beyond acting. His YouTube channel, dedicated to documenting personal moments and visits to independent cinemas, reflects his commitment to preserving the cultural heritage of film.

“Starting my YouTube channel was a way to record personal moments.I love visiting independent cinemas. Seeing these spaces disappear made me want to document them. I can’t guarantee entertainment value, but it’s something personal I wanted to preserve.”

This personal project highlights Lee’s dedication to the art form and his desire to keep the spirit of independent cinema alive.

When it comes to selecting projects for the actors in his company, Lee emphasized the importance of genuine passion over financial gain.

“My main criterion is whether the actor genuinely wants to do it. From a company’s perspective, you can’t ignore the financial returns for the actor, but I hope that money is not the primary reason for their choices.”

Lee Je-hoon’s approach to managing his company and his thoughtful selection of projects reveal his deep-seated values and dedication to the craft of acting.

READ ALSO: 'Chief Detective 1958' Episode 10: Lee Je Hoon Transforms Jongnam Police

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Written by Joana Cabigas.