Around GMA

Article Inside Page

Korean actress Son Ye-jin opened up about feeling certain burdens during the 22 years of her acting career.

In the latest episode of tvN's You Quiz On The Block, Son Ye-jin made a guest appearance to promote her new drama Thirty, Nine.

The actress mentioned that she had only appeared in 30 projects in the 22 years of her acting career, which is already a big achievement, but somehow falls short of Son Ye-jin's expectations for herself.

She explained, "There aren't too many films for actresses. No one told me to take on the burden but I feel like I was carrying the responsibility alone."

Son Ye-jin narrated how she carefully prepares to go in character prior to filming a scene. She explained, "When there is an emotional scene I have to film, I have to control my mind. I even become reverent when going to wash my hands. This is my way of getting ready to act well. I do my best when filming just like a boxer would when they enter the ring."

Sometimes, she gets up early in the morning to take a walk in a park while listening to music that would tap into her emotions before filming an emotional scene. Despite all her effort preparing, she still worries about disappointing her audience, "I always have a fear thinking 'Can I do this well? What if my emotions aren't up to par during the filming?' I want to run away countless times."

She also added, "The downside to this career is that no one can help you. It gets really lonely once you stand in front of the camera. It was a constant repeat for me wanting to run away but then I have to accomplish this work greatly."

After being in the industry for over two decades, Son Ye-jin showed her self-awareness and accountability with every project she takes. "I have a sense of responsibility for a project as well as the acting skills I must show. I have to show an improved self but there is a limit to how much I can evolve. I feel that there are standards and expectations I must satisfy so it's hard for me," she said.

Back when she was still a newbie actress, she said she mostly focused on improving her acting, now, she feels obligated to take care of the whole cast and crew who worked hard along with her for a film or show.

She explained, "A month before the film premieres, I can't sleep. I know very well that just because I don't sleep doesn't mean the film would be successful but I get so nervous when I think about the staff members and fellow actors who went through so much hard work. I worry thinking, 'What if the movie completely fails?' So, this tension is in constant repetition."

On February 10, Son Ye-jin and boyfriend-turned-fiance Hyun Bin announced their engagement.

Take a look at their relationship journey here:

Watch more of her interview here: