Lee Ji-hoon Rediscovers His Passion for Soccer on ‘Kick It Together 4’
South Korean actor Lee Ji-hoon, known for his diverse roles over a decade-long acting career, recently made fans do a double take with his athletic transformation on JTBC’s reality show Kick It Together 4. During a photo shoot and interview with BNT International, Lee talked candidly about his second wind in sports, his acting journey, and a surprising love for portraying darker characters.
After impressing viewers in the recent draft episode, where he displayed accurate passing and strategic defense, Lee is garnering attention as a fan-favorite player. Despite not having scenes to film, he spends most days thinking about soccer. “It’s become a lifestyle. Even when I’m not on the pitch, I’m watching FC Seoul games,” he shared.
Before returning to the photo shoot in full celebrity mode, Lee reminisced about his first photo session with BNT, which happened 12 years ago when he just debuted. “It feels meaningful. The first shoot was right after my debut, and now here I am, still chasing dreams,” he said with a smile.
Lee spoke in depth about his current involvement in Kick It Together 4, revealing, “I used to play soccer seriously in middle school. I gave it up but when the show reached out, I realized this could be my last chance. I dove in with all I had.” Asked about teammates, he praised players like Su-gyeom and Seung-woo, and emphasized his dedication to growing the team’s cohesiveness.
Lee also opened up about working with coach Kim Nam-il, initially expecting someone strict, only to discover a warm-hearted and thoughtful mentor. “He might sound curt, but you feel his sincerity,” Lee remarked.
The soccer field isn’t the only place Lee shines. He recently starred in films like Royal Loader and Baeksu Apartment, recalling both as special experiences. But his role as Min Woo-won in Newcomer Historian Goo Hae-ryung remains especially memorable. “It was scorching hot during filming, but the role was so rewarding,” he shared.
Discussing his early career, Lee revealed he beat 3,000 other auditionees for School 2013. “The director asked me to write an essay about my first love. I guess my sincerity came through,” he laughed.
Not many know that Lee’s transition to acting started in the military. Initially studying to become a PE teacher, a musical he saw during leave changed everything. “I watched Lee Sun-sin starring Min Young-ki. I felt acting could bring me happiness,” said Lee, who returned to base armed with books and dreams.
Reflecting humbly yet confidently on his look, Lee said, “I may have a plain face, but it makes me adaptable. I can be good or evil. That spectrum excites me.” He revealed a desire to tackle darker roles, naming Joker as an inspiration. “A pure villain without a tragic backstory — that’s the role I want to play.”
Looking ahead, Lee is striving for victory on Kick It Together and a breakthrough acting role. “I want to win with my team and surprise fans with a new project this year. Hopefully, as a villain,” he concluded, hinting at a bold new chapter.
