Baek Hyun-jin Sheds 'Villain' Image, Embraces Comedy in 'Office Workers 2'

Actor Baek Hyun-jin, long recognized for his portrayals of formidable villains, is breaking new ground by joining the cast of Coupang Play’s 'Office Workers 2' in a comedic role.

Known for exuding a cool and imposing aura on screen and stage, Baek Hyun-jin harbored a desire to shatter his established image and explore the realm of comedy. The opportunity arose when PD Kim Min, who had long kept Baek on his casting wishlist, offered him a role in the series.

Baek shared in an interview, "My villainous image was too strong, and I wanted to disrupt it. I always had a craving to perform in comedies as an actor. 'Office Workers 2', with its heavy emphasis on improvisation and ad-libs, provided an excellent experimental ground for me."

Initially slated for a manager role, he proposed a shift to a co-manager system, believing it would enhance the comedic dynamics. Having trained and enjoyed improvisation across various artistic fields like art, music, and acting, his primary concern was not about his ad-libbing skills, but rather about not becoming a burden to his colleagues.

Unexpected ad-libs on set significantly shaped his character. His initial concept of a poker-faced, brazen senior manager evolved through the spontaneous interactions, leading to scenes filled with unexpected laughter. A sequence where he was supposed to react stoically but broke down crying due to a co-star’s antics transformed the character, adding a layer of relatable vulnerability that surprised viewers.

"As the episodes progressed, my true self started showing more and more. I didn't expect to laugh this much. I thought I was just doing comedy, but at some point, my genuine nature came through," Baek admitted. This personal transformation not only added depth to his character but also elevated the overall comedic tension and success of the series.

"This project allowed me to finally do the comedy I've always wanted to as an actor. I wanted to chip away at the 'villain' perception and show myself as someone who, despite being flawed, can bring laughter. This decision was an intense experiment and a new beginning for me," he concluded.

Baek Hyun-jin first gained recognition in the Korean indie rock scene of the 1990s as a musician. He was a member of the band 'Uhuh Boo Project,' known for its unique musical style, and has continued his musical endeavors. His acting career began in the early 2000s, where he primarily garnered attention for his intense and memorable villainous roles.