Park Hae-soo Transforms in ‘Nemesis’: From Witness to Mastermind

Netflix’s latest Korean crime thriller Nemesis has taken the streaming giant by storm, quickly securing the No.1 spot in South Korea upon release. At the center of its gripping narrative and twisted storylines is actor Park Hae-soo, who delivers a chillingly layered performance as a character known only as ‘The Witness’.

In Nemesis, six entangled lives are caught in a web of karmic fate and unrelenting crime. Park’s character, who begins as a bumbling bystander to a hit-and-run, gradually evolves into a sinister architect of chaos. “It’s surreal and humbling to see the show being loved,” says Park. “The character’s extremes and emotional range were a challenge — and a blessing.”

Directed by Lee Il-hyung, the show balances intensity with rhythm, avoiding the pitfalls of melodrama despite its heavy themes. Park credits the production team and co-stars like Lee Kwang-soo (who plays Angyeongnam) for their powerful energy and contributions to the on-screen chemistry.

Park’s approach to his character was anything but straightforward. “I didn’t play him as foolish — I saw him as someone surviving by instinct, hiding his true colors until the time was right,” he shares. One theme resonating through the entire role was the idea of wearing a ‘shell’. “He changes clothes, steals lives, and even enters someone else’s home just to claim ‘Welcome home’ — he’s someone who turns fraud into a habit, even a philosophy,” Park elaborates.

From multiple personas to physical transformations, including full-body burns symbolizing karmic punishment, Park’s dedication extended to grueling hours in makeup. “At first, we made the burns really red and harsh, but toned it down to maintain emotional realism without pushing viewers away,” he explains. He studied real documentary footage to portray the pain accurately, noting that “I tried not to miss what pain at level 10 looks like.”

The concept of Karma — also referenced in the English title — resonates deeply with Park. “I believe in destiny and that consequences, no matter how long they take, find their way back,” he says. “Even when hurt by others, forgiveness and knowing where to cut ties is my personal choice.”

Park Hae-soo’s connection with Netflix began in 2019 with the film Persona. He has since built a robust portfolio including Squid Game (2021), Suriname, and Money Heist: Korea – Joint Economic Area (2022), earning him the nickname “Netflix employee.” In the second half of the year, he is set to appear in The Great Flood, Good News, and the original series The Price of Confession.

On staying busy without a break, Park notes, “People seem to think more highly of me than I deserve. I always see flaws in myself. Maybe it’s the contrast and character arcs I play that appeal to the audience.” He hopes to explore more grounded and warm-hearted stories, both onscreen and on stage. “As a stage actor too, I’m hoping to discover new and enjoyable works.”