'The Trauma Code's director praises Ju Ji Hoon's character portrayal in the Netflix K-drama

Ju Ji Hoon shares thoughts on his upcoming drama The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call.

On January 21, a press conference for the Netflix series The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call was held in Seoul. Attendees included Ju Ji Hoon, Choo Young Woo, Ha Young, Yoon Gyung Ho, Jeong Jae Kwang, and director Lee Do Yoon.

Talking about his on-screen character Baek Kang Hyuk, Ju Ji Hoon said, "He's a person who prioritizes saving lives and [the value of] medicine over money. The reason he's so obsessed with saving lives is explained in the drama. As a doctor, he prioritizes saving people above all else, which might make him appear somewhat prickly and rough on the outside."

When asked what he focused on while acting, the actor responded, "The plot is [themed] as a hero story, but it's being described as a medical drama, and there's also the original work [web novel that should be considered]. Be it dramatic thrill or something else, there must be something this drama should give [to viewers]. However, when acting, with music layered on top and direction added, certain witticisms might come across as mockery. So, I thought a lot about how to blend the dramatic fun and thrill seamlessly. We had sessions where we spent 7 to 8 hours reviewing."

He also shared, "The drama has a very fantasy-like aspect. It addresses things we wish for — things that are difficult in reality but are resolved justly in the story, offering a sense of catharsis. It has that liberating feel to it."

He added, "At the same time, as it’s a story about saving people's lives, it inevitably carries a heavy tone. When adapting the webtoon into a visual medium, instead of leaning too much into a webtoon-like style, grounding the story in reality was crucial. That way, the fantasy elements don't feel overly far-fetched or implausible. I think [our drama] all blends together very well."

Ju Ji Hoon seamlessly blending into the character of Baek Kang Hyuk is also a point of interest. Director Lee Do Yoon remarked, "First of all, they're both tall and good-looking. They also share a bit of that annoyingly charming aspect," evoking laughter. He continued, "I saw Baek Kang Hyuk as a character with a clear sense of direction. Once he determines that a path is right, he strives ahead without hesitation. Ju Ji Hoon portrayed this aspect perfectly, and the character displays it while saving lives. You can really feel him striding boldly and confidently forward."

The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call follows Baek Kang Hyuk (Ju Ji Hoon), a genius surgeon who has performed surgeries even in the most chaotic conflict zones. He takes on the mission of leading the underfunded and sidelined Trauma Team at a university hospital.  

The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call will premiere on January 24, only on Netflix. 

Sources (1)(2)