A Malaysian face in K-dramas

BUDDING actor Muhammad Amir Haiqal Azhar may be unfamiliar to many Malaysians, but the 27-year-old from Semenyih, Selangor, has sparked pride among K-drama fans here with his Malay lines in two South Korean series.

He thrilled viewers with "Woi, nak pergi mana woi" in 'Taxi Driver 3' and recently went viral in 'Dead-End Job' saying "berhenti semua, berhenti" and "hati-hati dengan ketua kau".

Speaking to Bernama, Amir Haiqal said he entered the industry by chance while studying production at Konkuk University in Seoul, after a friend persuaded him to join an acting class.

"It was through that class that I overcame my fear of performing in front of a crowd and discovered my passion for acting.

"I am proud to represent Malaysia in Korean dramas, especially through Malay dialogue. But this is just the beginning of my acting journey in South Korea."

Breaking into the scene requires two to three rounds of auditions — from profile and video submissions to in-person castings. He also helps craft his Malay lines.

"The scripts are usually given in Korean and I am asked to translate them into Malay. Some lines are added spontaneously during filming."

He has appeared in seven dramas, two feature films, eight indie films, two theatre productions and three YouTube dramas, learning from seasoned actors like Ko Chang-seok and Lee Min.

Having completed his studies, he plans to stay in South Korea rather than return immediately.

"I intend to keep chasing acting opportunities here, become one of the actors directors actively seek out and eventually land leading roles in both Korean dramas and films," he said, adding that he remains open to Malaysian projects.