"This character was a challenge”— Ju Ji-hoon on his role as Dr. Baek Kang-hyuk on The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call, preparation process, & more

Actor Ju Ji-hoon recently discussed the challenges of portraying Dr. Baek Kang-hyuk in the Netflix series The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call. In an interview with Sports Hankooki on January 27, he shared his thoughts on the complexity of his character and the preparation process he underwent to bring authenticity to the role.

The actor admitted that this role pushed him to explore a broader emotional spectrum than ever before. Dr. Baek Kang-hyuk is not a typical medical professional, he is portrayed as a decisive and passionate trauma surgeon whose actions often contradict organizational norms. Ji-hoon stated:

"This character was a challenge that added a new attempt to all the characters I've played. Without being confined to my existing image, I wanted to show a much wider emotional spectrum through Baek Kang-hyuk."

Ju Ji-hoon described the character as one who sacrifices himself to save patients while grappling with moral dilemmas and personal growth.

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Ju Ji-hoon reveals what drew him to his complex role in The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call

In the interview with Sports Hankooki, Ju Ji-hoon revealed that when he first read the script, he was captivated by the story's power and the multidimensional nature of the characters. He noted that The Trauma Code goes beyond a standard medical drama, delving into human struggles, ethical choices, and the profound connections between individuals. He added:

"When I first read the script, I was so drawn to his complex and passionate inner self. It's been a long time since I've been able to truly immerse myself in a character like this."

To prepare for the role, Ju Ji-hoon spent extensive time working with real medical staff to understand the intricacies of their work. He explained:

"In order to act realistically, I spent a lot of time with the medical staff at an actual trauma center. I tried to learn vivid details, from how to handle medical equipment to judgment in emergency situations. In the process, I was able to personally feel how important a role trauma centers play in our society."

The actor stated that the experience deepened his appreciation for the role trauma centers play in society and the emotional toll borne by healthcare professionals.

The synergy between Ju Ji-hoon and his co-stars, including Choo Young-woo and Ha Young, played a crucial role in enriching the drama. Ju praised his junior actors for their passion and commitment on set. He noted that the collaboration improved the show’s overall quality and allowed him to learn and grow alongside his peers.

Reflecting on his work, Ju Ji-hoon reiterated his belief in the importance of sincerity in acting. He described his role as an opportunity to convey universal messages about hope, perseverance, and humanity to the audience. He stated that The Trauma Code: Heroes on Call is not merely a medical drama but a narrative that resonates deeply with real-life experiences, emphasizing compassion and resilience.

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The series debuted on Netflix on January 24, 2025, garnering significant attention for its compelling storytelling and powerful performances. Adapted from a popular web novel, it tells the story of a talented trauma surgeon who transforms a struggling hospital team into a high-performing unit.