In a significant shift for Netflix's hit series 'Hellbound,' Kim Sung Cheol has confidently taken on the role of Jung Jin Soo, previously portrayed by Yoo Ah In, who stepped down amid drug controversy. This transition comes with immense expectations as fans look for continuity in the character while embracing fresh interpretations.

Kim Sung Cheol has openly discussed the pressure accompanying this high-profile role. 'I was fortunate to have the original webtoon as my guide,' he expressed, noting it helped him establish a connection to Jung Jin Soo. The actor aimed to create a balance between familiarity and novelty in his performance, stating, 'It was a challenge to be both familiar yet fresh. Natural integration into Jung Jin Soo was my utmost goal, and if viewers can appreciate the character’s evolution, I’ll view that as a success.'

As he prepared for the role, Kim utilized his dedication to original material. Known for his meticulous approach, he recalled his experience with the musical 'Death Note,' where he studied the original manga over 300 times, earning him the moniker 'fanatic of original works' among his colleagues.

Reflecting on the backstory of Jung Jin Soo, Kim elaborated on the character's traumatic journey: 'Twenty years ago, he must have faced a harsh mental upheaval upon receiving the decree of damnation. This likely fueled his anger and caused him to inflict the same pain on others, manifesting a cycle of fear and suffering.'

In Season 2, the intensity of suffering surrounding Jung Jin Soo is palpable. 'His mental and physical turmoil has escalated. He finds himself in a place where he can neither change his fate nor escape your anguish,' Kim related. He portrayed Jung Jin Soo as a character stripped of identity, desperately seeking connection with Park Jung Ja, played by Kim Shin Rok. 'Ultimately, he longs to confide in her, yearning for reassurance. However, the response he receives—being labeled a coward—only plunges him further into chaos,' he explained.

This emotional complexity posed challenges for both the character and Kim himself. He admitted that capturing the character's intricate emotions at times left him bewildered, leading to moments where tears came unbidden. 'Balancing the darkness of Jung Jin Soo while trying to evoke sympathy is a tightrope walk,' he shared.

Despite Jung Jin Soo's villainous actions, Kim aims to draw out the audience's compassion instead of vilification. 'While he’s undeniably deserving of punishment, I want viewers to question why he has become this way. Even those who commit terrible acts can possess layers that provoke empathy,' he stated. The actor also discussed the duality of characters, distinguishing Jung Jin Soo as the embodiment of evil, contrasted with Park Jung Ja and Min Hye Jin representing goodness. 'In this narrative, justice prevails, but Jung Jin Soo remains unable to change his path,' he emphasized.

Director Yeon Sang Ho’s humanistic vision has played a crucial role in Kim's connection with the show. 'He is deeply empathetic and understanding, which allowed me to approach the character from a more grounded perspective,' Kim noted.

Following the climactic conclusion of Season 2, anticipation is already building for Season 3, which promises to further explore Jung Jin Soo's transformation into an emissary of hell. Kim lightheartedly reflected on his interactions with the director, suggesting, 'I jokingly asked if Jung Jin Soo could oscillate between human and emissary forms freely in the next season, but he instantly shot that down,' demonstrating the playful dynamic behind the scenes.

Fans eagerly await to see how Kim Sung Cheol brings his unique interpretation to the character in future episodes, as he navigates the precarious balance of villainy and vulnerability. The unfolding journey of Jung Jin Soo promises to challenge audience perceptions of good and evil in a world where the lines are increasingly blurred.