Korean star Rain goes on 'torturous' diet for new film

Source: channelnewsasia.com

SEOUL : South Korean superstar Rain had to put himself on a strict diet for his latest role in action flick "Ninja Assassin" in which he plays an orphan who becomes a ninja warrior.

The new, Joel Silver-produced movie, promises plenty of stunts, sword fights and of course, the leading man himself, Rain.

Describing the food he took as "terrible", and just thinking about it makes him shudder. Now that he no longer has to subject himself to a strict regimen, he is glad that he is able to resume a normal diet, reported Korean media.

For the sake of the movie’s role which required him to be in perfect and lean condition, the singer-actor said that he underwent intensive training two months before filming commenced.

Admitting his preference for junk food, French fries and hamburgers, his diet during the eight months of filming and training was replaced by mainly steamed fish and chicken breast with vegetables. During the process, the 27-year-old managed to lose 22 pounds (10 kilograms).

When asked if he would undergo another round of intense dieting for another role in a movie, Rain, whose name is Jung Ji Hoon, shook his head in disapproval.

"It feels scary just thinking about that period. I don’t think it’s possible for me to go through the process again. It was painful especially for someone like me who worships food."

Rain made his American movie debut with last year's "Speed Racer" and "Ninja Assassin" marks his first Hollywood leading role. The movie is scheduled to open in theatres later this year.