Shin Sung Rok Tries His First Historical Drama

With his roles in "You Who Came From The Stars," "Trot Lovers" and "Liar Game," Shin Sung Rok has proven that he can act in just about any kind of drama. But despite the range of dramas he already appeared in, he has yet to be in a historical drama. That will soon change.

Shin Sung Rok is an actor that is equally believable as a villain or romantic lead. In "You Who Came From The Stars" he played the cold-hearted villain who wanted to kill Jun Ji Hyun. In "Trot Lovers" he was the warm-hearted entertainment CEO who wooed but lost Jung Eun Ji. In "Liar Game" viewers are not yet sure who his character will turn out to be. As the mysterious host of a game show that encourages people to lie and cheat, it's hard to know what's behind his mask.

But in his next role he will be easier to read. He is going to play Kim Do Chi, a skilled face reader/fortuneteller in the upcoming drama "The King's Face."

Face readers practice the art of physiognomy, or determining a person's character and future through their features. In "The King's Face," Kim Do Chi is the face reader that helps Prince Gwanghae, the son of a concubine, ascend to the throne.

That's not to say Do Chi's motives are going to be simple. His character stars out being a good guy, eager to accomplish good deeds. But he faces some unfortunate events that set him on a path for revenge. He's also going to be motivated by jealousy.

In this drama he falls in love with Ga Hee, played by Jo Yoon Hee. She is in love with Prince Gwanghae, played by Seo In Guk. And Prince Gwanghae's father, King Seonjo, also loves her. This rivalry in love does not help the already troubled father-son relationship. And Shin Sung Rok winds up in the middle of their conflict.

Stills from the upcoming drama show Shin Sung Rok looking secretive. His character has a lot to think about in a court full of dangerous intrigue.

"It's my first historical drama so I feel nervous," he said. "But I think I can manage with the help of the director and my fellow cast members. I am working hard to bring out the desire in my character, so you can look forward to it."

"The King's Face" will air in November.