Actor Lee Tae-gu recently shared his experience working on the SBS drama "Queen Mantis," revealing how the challenging role pushed him to his limits while acting alongside veteran star Ko Hyun-jung. In the series, Ko portrays Jung Yi-sin, a serial killer, while Lee takes on the complex character of Seo Gu-wan, her devoted follower.

"I waited for the day I would act with senior Ko as if I was gathering all my energy like a spirit bomb," Lee told Hankook Ilbo in a recent interview, describing the mix of excitement and pressure he felt about the opportunity.

Lee's involvement in the project came through director Byun Young-joo, with whom he had previously collaborated on MBC's "Death to Snow White." The casting process happened in a casual yet memorable way. "I was resting when the director called and asked what I was doing. I said I was running, and she replied, 'I mean your schedule!' That's how she brought me in," Lee recalled with a laugh.

However, accepting the role of Seo Gu-wan proved to be a significant challenge for the actor. "When I first read the script, I didn't think I could do it," he admitted. Director Byun pressed him further, asking if he was afraid of acting with Ko Hyun-jung. "After the call, I thought about it and got emotional. That's when I decided to take it on," Lee explained.

Despite some questioning whether a more recognizable actor should have been cast in the role, director Byun insisted on Lee for the part. "I was grateful that someone recognized me, and it was the first time a director I had worked with before called me again," he said. "I knew if I failed, the director would be in a tough spot, so I wanted to do really well."

Working alongside Ko Hyun-jung on set proved to be a positive experience for Lee, who described the veteran actress as warm and encouraging. "She has long been a star and an icon, but she treated me so kindly," he shared. For a particularly intense confrontation scene at a safe house, Lee prepared thoroughly, channeling his nervous energy into his performance. "I was nervous and excited. That tension turned into good energy for my acting."

One memorable moment occurred during a scene where Lee had to grab Ko by the collar, requiring multiple takes due to microphone issues. "I felt sorry because it could hurt the other actor, but she told me, 'It's okay, just do it. Later when I choke you, I'll get my revenge,' which helped me relax," Lee recalled, highlighting Ko's professionalism and humor.

Lee's path to acting wasn't straightforward. Originally, he dreamed of becoming a film director after being inspired by the Japanese movie "Josee, the Tiger and the Fish." He entered Hanyang University's directing program but shifted his focus to acting after completing his military service. "I remembered how much I enjoyed theater. I wanted to stop hiding behind the camera and try it myself," he explained.

Although acting opportunities came slowly at first, director Byun encouraged him by recognizing his versatility. She told him he had a look suitable for both villains and intellectuals, which gave him the confidence to continue pursuing acting. "That gave me courage," Lee said.

Currently a free agent after his contract ended, Lee is actively auditioning and meeting with various companies while also hoping to return to his theatrical roots. "It's scary to face audiences directly, but theater has a different kind of charm," he noted.

To maintain his physical and mental sharpness, Lee has taken up marathon running and boxing, the latter recommended by fellow actor Byun Yo-han. "In boxing, you never know where the punches will come from. Acting is the same, responding spontaneously to your partner. It sharpens your instincts," he explained, drawing parallels between the sport and his craft.

As a devoted baseball fan, Lee credits the Hanwha Eagles with helping him through difficult periods without new projects. "Even when I had no work, watching Eagles games kept me going," he said. "I want to throw out the first pitch at least once before I die," he added, revealing one of his personal dreams beyond acting.