K-drama actor discussed traumas from playing Squid Game’s villain, completely transformed in latest work

This K-drama actor even gave up an acting project due to emotional scars after “Squid Game”. 

Last year, actor Heo Sung Tae had a career breakthrough after starring as the villain of Netflix’s series “Squid Game”. To successfully portray a low-life and intimidating gangster, the actor gained over 37 pounds (17kg) within just a month. The massive popularity of “Squid Game” also familiarized the audience with Sung Tae’s large and ruffian image, leading to very few people knowing of the actor’s true appearance. In fact, Heo Sung Tae takes really good care of his physique, and has quickly lost weight again to comeback with his upcoming historical drama “Bloody Heart”. 

Looking at the actor’s latest images, fans can’t help but be flabbergasted. In this series, Heo Sung Tae has turned into a regal government official, looking way more imposing than his previous mobster vibes. 

At the press conference for “Bloody Heart”, the actor also shared about his difficulties after “Squid Game” ended. Famous as the series was, it left Heo Sung Tae with deep mental scars ages after the finale. In particular, the actor developed social anxiety, and could not interact with people to the point he had to quit another acting project, even though filming already started. Moreover, Sung Tae also shared that the weight gain severely affected his health, and he would carefully consider roles that require a bigger figure in the future.