So Ji Sub reveals he lost nearly 15 kg (33 lbs) for his role in 'Mercy for None'

So Ji Sub shared his thoughts on his latest project, 'Mercy for None.'

On June 12, So Ji Sub sat down for an interview for his role in the latest series 'Mercy for None,' which premiered on Netflix on June 6. The actor shared his thoughts on working with the cast and also expressed gratitude for the success of the show.

During the interview, So Ji Sub revealed he had lost 15 kgs (33 lbs) for the filming of the series. He explained, "Before starting the diet, I weighed 95 kg (209 lbs). By the end of filming, I was down to the 70 kg range. I lost weight the standard way. I restricted calories by eating chicken breasts. It wasn't easy. I don’t think I can afford to gain weight like before anymore. But I love eating, and I gain weight easily, even when I don't eat much."

So Ji Sub also spoke about 'Mercy for None' being referred to as the 'Korean John Wick.' He expressed gratitude and said, "I’m just grateful. I appreciate that a Korean noir series is even being compared to 'John Wick'." He added, "Korean noir is quite rare these days. I hope Gwangjang can help spark more noir productions in Korea. Every country has its own strengths when it comes to noir. Korea doesn’t use guns as much, so the impact feels different. You can really feel the energy through direct, close-range fights."

'Mercy for None' is a noir action drama about Nam Gi Jun, a man who once left the criminal underworld after cutting his own Achilles tendon. He returns 11 years later to uncover the truth behind his younger brother Nam Gi Seok’s death and seek revenge. The series is based on a popular webtoon of the same name, known for its intense storyline and bold artwork. It combines heavy, hard-boiled action with expanded narrative and visuals to deliver a gripping experience.

The original webtoon ran for 63 episodes on Naver Webtoon, written by Oh Se Hyung and illustrated by Kim Kyun Tae, telling the story of Gi Jun’s solo return to the organization after 15 years.

So Ji Sub, long seen by fans as the top pick to play Nam Gi Jun, returns to noir action for the first time in 13 years. The cast includes Heo Joon Ho as Lee Joo Woon, Gong Myung as Goo Joon Mo, Choo Young Woo as Lee Geum Son, Ahn Kil Kang as Goo Bong San, Jo Han Chul as Choi Sung Chul, and Lee Jun Hyuk as Nam Gi Seok, creating a dynamic ensemble.