K-drama actors are no strangers to physical transformations for their roles. Be it to shed pounds or pack muscle, these performers often go to great lengths to embody a character. The latest case in point is Choi Kwang Rok (a.k.a. Roy) of The Atypical Family, who had to bulk up for his show persona.
What Is “The Atypical Family” About?
The Netflix-streaming series The Atypical Family follows Bok Gwi-ju (played by Jang Ki Yong), who is born to a family with superpowered abilities running in their veins. With each member possessing a different power, Gwi-Ju is able to travel back in time to the happiest moments of his life. However, when he is struck with depression, his powers soon diminish, too–just like the rest of his family who fall into illnesses like insomnia, bulimia, and addiction.
Gwi-Ju comes across the mysterious Do Da-hae (Chun Woo Hee), a young woman who was taken under the wing of Baek Il-hong (Kim Geum Sun), a loan shark who scams the Bok family. Despite their ill-conceived ways, Il-hong and bodyguard-slash-fake uncle Noh Hyung-tae (played by Choi Kwang Rok) are Dae-hae’s unexpected family that have grown fond of her.
Choi Kwang Rok on Gaining 30 Kilograms for His Role in “The Atypical Family”
Despite his burly exterior, Hyung-tae manifests his softer side with his adoptive niece Dae-hae, earning him the fledgling status as the series’ fan-favorite. The gentle giant is portrayed by Choi Kwang Rok, who had to gain muscle to fill his shoes.
In a previous statement made through the agency ESteem Entertainment, Kwang Rok revealed that he gained 30 kilograms for the character, who is depicted to be a man with a large physique and a quiet aura.
“Putting on the weight was not the easiest after being cast in The Atypical Family,” the actor admitted. “But I tried my best, grateful for the opportunity to portray a character like No Hyung Tae, too. Personally, I had a lot of fun shooting the show. So I hope the viewers also fall in love with the character and me acting behind the character.”
While many might consider Kwang Rok a new face in the K-drama scene, the actor had already made his rounds in several series. He debuted in 2022’s Green Mothers’ Club, where he portrayed the Korean-French character Louis Benuel. Later on, he also appeared in dramas like Hit the Spot and Arthdal Chronicles: The Sword of Aramun, which starred the likes of Jang Dong Gun, Lee Joon Gi, Shin Se Kyung, and Kim Ok Vin.
With his latest appearance in The Atypical Family, we can definitely confirm that he has the range. Here’s hoping we see more of him in the future!
The Atypical Family is streaming on Netflix.
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