Veteran actor Han Suk-kyu is returning to the small screen with a new side of his acting, blending intensity, charisma, warmth, and humor into one character.
A New Role with Familiar Depth
In tvN's upcoming Monday-Tuesday drama Project Manager Shin, Han takes on the role of Shin, a former negotiation expert who now runs a fried chicken restaurant. The character juggles charisma, wit, and human warmth, solving disputes with sharp words and negotiation skills.
Han shared at the online press conference on September 8, "I poured all the emotions and characters I've acted over the past 35 years into this role. I wanted to give timeless comfort to everyone living in these extreme times."
Though best known for serious roles such as King Sejong in Tree with Deep Roots and Master Kim in Dr. Romantic, Han will showcase his comedic timing for the first time in years. "The script had humor and ease that I wanted to challenge myself with," he explained.
Teamwork and Behind-the-Scenes Stories
The drama also stars Bae Hyun-sung as staff member Jo Philip and Lee Re as delivery worker Lee Si-on. Together, they form a quirky team with Shin managing the kitchen. Han emphasized the importance of chemistry, noting that the cast practiced together twice a week for two months before filming to build real closeness.
Director Shin Kyung-soo, who previously worked with Han on Tree with Deep Roots (2011) and Six Flying Dragons (2015), praised the actor: "Han Suk-kyu's performance was so strong in past works that I always wanted to collaborate again. On set, he guided new actors and created a supportive atmosphere."
Lee Re added, "He led our meetings even before filming started. On set, he always lightened the mood with small talk. He really felt like a father figure."
What to Watch For
The series blends humor, heart, and mystery. Viewers will also discover why Shin, a top negotiation expert, ended up running a chicken restaurant. Han teased, "I don't worry about ratings. I just hope this drama becomes a memorable life story for many."
Project Manager Shin premieres on September 15 at 8:50 p.m. on tvN.
