"Lee Seo-jin grumbles and complains a lot, but he's also highly responsible and hardworking. He has a sense of humor too. He's similar to Uncle Vanya."
Director Son Sang-gyu explained his reasons for casting Lee Seo-jin in the lead role at a press conference held Monday at LG Signature Hall for the play "Uncle Vanya." The production, a masterpiece by world-renowned Russian playwright Anton Chekhov, will run May 7-31 at LG Signature Hall, presented by LG Arts Center. The show has drawn particular attention as the theatrical stage debut for both Lee Seo-jin and Ko A-sung.
Lee admitted that accepting the role was not an easy decision. "I had taken a long break from acting while working as an entertainment personality, so I initially declined," he said. "But after talking with my agency staff, I came to see it as a new experience and a good opportunity, so I accepted."
He also spoke about the challenging rehearsal process. "Unlike TV or film, theater doesn't allow for retakes—you have to get it right in one go, which is difficult," Lee said. "We've been rehearsing since March, and maintaining a regular practice schedule has been demanding. I've been constantly nervous, and when I asked when the tension would go away, they told me it wouldn't until the show actually opens." He laughed.
Director Son explained that he cast Lee because he believed the actor would be a good fit for the role of Vanya. "He seemed like someone with a sense of humor who complains a lot but has a strong sense of responsibility," Son said. "When we actually started rehearsing together, he was exactly as I expected—grumbling but working hard. I think he genuinely enjoys acting." Lee responded with a laugh, saying, "I'm channeling 100 percent of my complaints into playing the perpetually dissatisfied Vanya."
