14-Year-Old Park Shin-hye Was Slapped 30 Times; Actress Reveals 'Stairway to Heaven' Behind-the-Scenes Detail, Still Feels Guilty

Veteran actress Lee Hwi-hyang has revisited a memorable and intense scene from the classic Korean drama "Stairway to Heaven," where she played the villainous stepmother. During a recent appearance on the MBN program "Kim Ju-ha's Day & Night," Lee recounted the experience of repeatedly slapping a then 14-year-old Park Shin-hye, who portrayed the younger version of the main character.

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The scene probably involved about 30 slaps, and thinking about it now, I feel very sorry.

Lee Hwi-hyang admitted that she struck Park Shin-hye approximately 30 times during the filming of that particular scene. She explained that while the script initially indicated a simple slap, she, as an actress embodying the character's cruelty, felt a more forceful portrayal was necessary. After discussing it with the production team, they proceeded with the intense sequence that viewers eventually saw.

Reflecting on the incident, Lee Hwi-hyang expressed deep regret and apologized for her actions. She recalled immediately embracing Park Shin-hye after the scene, noting that the young actress, despite her professionalism and assurances that she was fine, had visibly swollen cheeks. This memory has stayed with Lee Hwi-hyang, causing her ongoing guilt.

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She was very sensible and said 'It's okay,' but her cheeks were very swollen.

Years later, Lee Hwi-hyang encountered a grown-up Park Shin-hye at an airport. The encounter was particularly touching because Park Shin-hye approached her warmly and greeted her politely. This gesture further amplified Lee Hwi-hyang's feelings of remorse, mixed with surprise and appreciation for Park Shin-hye's grace.

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Even years later, when I met the grown-up Park Shin-hye at the airport, she proactively greeted me.