Q. Viewers were impressed with the rain calling ritual. What was your approach for that scene?
A. I concentrated hard because it was the scene highlighting the change in Wang So. I wanted to show him regain confidence as a young boy who had been intimidated by cold outlooks but was able to get rid of the stigma of the scar with Soo's help approaching the altar step by step. As So was passing by the common people, the princes and court officials, and the king and his queens in order, I tried to convey how the emotional intensity gradually rose in him.
Q. The part where Wang So is tranformed into Gwangjong towards the end of the ritual generated much talk
A. I'm glad that it got a positive response. I knew that it would be surprising, but I didn't know it would be this dramatic. I had put much thought into it as I had to preserve the image of So as well as show passage of time as Gwangjong.
Q. Your relationship with Hae Soo seems unique. What are Wang So's feelings for Hae Soo?
A. Soo is the only 'person' that sees So the way he is. Also, So can become the most honest/open when he is with Soo. While she's a woman he wants to protect, Wang So also feels like he's being protected by her. Because he learned the warmth of another human being from Soo, So wants to become stronger so that he will be able to encourage and respect Soo more than she's done for him.
Q. People are also interested in your chemistry with KHN playing Wang Wook. Another prince of the same age must feel special to you?
A. So had thought that Wook understood him. Wook had been the closest person he could call a friend or a brother, so when Wook responds with hostility and tells him "There's nothing here that belongs to you. They are all my people," So tries hard to hide is perplexity. When So and Wook see the same thing, their perceptions/thoughts and expressions are different. You'll see what I mean as you watch on, so please look forward to the rest of the show.
Q. What kind of viewer responses left the biggest impression on you?
A. I was a little worried that viewers may be scared of the scar on my face once it was revealed, but people were more sympathetic to So, saying that a scar doesn't matter. I was thankful for such responses because that means what used to be considered flaws in the past are not as important anymore today. What's important is what's inside that person. I want to become an actor that can portray that.
Q. 'Moon Lovers' is gaining popularity in North America as well as the East and South Asian areas. This is unusual. How do you feel about that?
A. I am very grateful. Viewers from each different culture seem to find enjoyment from different parts, and I find such different perspectives intriguing. I renew my resolution to become a better actor when I see the various encouraging messages from fans on social media.
Q. What shall viewers focus on as we continue to watch Wang So?
A. His surroundings change completely as he turns from the most humble prince to the most favored one. You could say he was an insecure boy so far, but from now on, he'll become more reliable and solid. He'll face some crisis as he becomes the subject of aspiration, envy, and jealousy all at the same time. Also, an unusual romance awaits. I tried hard not to lose my anchor in my acting because various emotions come and go.