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Yoo Oh-sung to Star in Drama “Jang Gil-san”

Posted April. 04, 2004 22:22,   

한국어

“I will do my best and leave the rest to the heavens,” said Yu Oh-sung, quoting from a proverb.

Movie and TV star Yoo Oh-sung, recently cast as the lead for the upcoming 50 episode drama series “Jang Gil-san,” summed up his feelings during the production presentation preview held at the Mokdong Broadcasting Institute in Seoul on Friday. “Jang Gil-san” is a historical epic novel set in the Chosun dynasty during the reign of King Sukjong. Jang Gil-san was born of a woman servant, raised by gypsies, and eventually tries to make a country for the people.

“Jang Gil-san” will first be broadcast on May 17, and writer Lee Hee-wu, known for her work in “The River of Brothers” and “Duggie” will write the screenplay based on the original novel by Hwang Seok-young. Jang Hyun-il, who produced “Ya In Sidae,” will be directing. Yoo Oh-sung’s counterpart will be actress Han Go-eun, acting as “Myo-ok,” and actors Choi Jae-sung and Jung Jun-ha will also appear.

This is the first time Yoo Oh-sung has acted in a historical drama.

“Historical dramas should be done by people with good historical minds and age. Although I lack much, I have always wanted to act in historical dramas and will intensely do my best,” Yoo said.

Yoo first read the novel “Jang Gil-san” in 1991, during his years as a college student majoring in drama at Hangyang University. He reread the story after being cast as Jang Gil-san.

“Unlike my first thoughts ten years ago, I realized what an amazing character Jang Gil-san was through this second reading. I do not know if I can do justice in acting as his character. I also pondered over why this drama would have to be broadcast in the present time period,” Yoo said.

Yoo Oh-sung is receiving basic training for his part, and is planning to learn traditional Korean singing, dancing, and martial arts.

On the other hand, Yoo Oh-sung surprised the production crew and press by rambling during the latter half of the production presentation preview because he was drunk. He repeatedly said that he was sorry he had drunken alcohol and mumbled to himself at times. He also had a cold attitude towards reporters’ questions, and reporters were not able to hold various interviews.



Sun-Woo Kim sublime@donga.com