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🇰🇷 South Korea /Culture & Society

Beloved 'villain' Oh Jung-se shines with self-censorship

From Hankyoreh · () Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Sources not specified Context piece
  • Actor Oh Jung-se is experiencing a career peak, known for his diverse roles in films and dramas, often playing complex, relatable characters.
  • He attributes his success to a rigorous acting process and a commitment to self-censorship, especially in comedy, to ensure authenticity.
  • Oh Jung-se values his long-standing friendships with fellow actors and directors, which provide a strong support system throughout his 30-year career.

Actor Oh Jung-se, now in his 30th year in the industry, is enjoying a golden period in his career, marked by a string of memorable performances in films like 'Extreme Job' and dramas such as 'When the Camellia Blooms' and 'It's Okay to Not Be Okay.' His recent role in the film 'Hamelin' adds to a diverse portfolio that often features characters with endearing flaws.

I don't think I'm an easy actor. When I'm working on a project, I ask a lot of questions like, 'Is this right?' or 'How about this?' I think I'm an actor who tries hard to find something in the process of meeting a character.

— Oh Jung-seDescribing his meticulous acting process.

Despite critical acclaim, Oh maintains a grounded perspective, viewing success and setbacks as natural cycles for an actor. He emphasizes a meticulous approach to his craft, often questioning and exploring character motivations deeply. This dedication is evident in his preparation, whether it's requesting specific books for a character's background or incorporating detailed props to enhance authenticity.

Oh is particularly rigorous with his comedic performances, employing a strict form of self-censorship to avoid artificiality. He admits to struggling with humor that feels forced, striving instead for organic comedic moments. This careful consideration extends to his appearance and mannerisms, as seen in his portrayal of characters like the ballad singer Choi Seong-gon in 'Hamelin.'

When I enter a comedy project, I become even more sensitive and self-censor. If I have to do forced comedy, I struggle. I go crazy if the reaction is, 'You're trying to be funny, but you're not.'

— Oh Jung-seExplaining his approach to comedic acting.

Throughout his extensive career, Oh has relied on a strong network of friends and colleagues, some of whom he met over 20 years ago. This support system, which includes directors and fellow actors, provides a stable foundation, allowing him to navigate the ups and downs of the entertainment industry. He reflects that his initial decision to pursue acting in high school was a process of elimination, leading him to a profession he feels he can sustain long-term.

I still keep in touch with friends I met 20 years ago at an institution recruiting actors. Some have different jobs, some are married, but that group is like my roots and gives me strength.

— Oh Jung-seHighlighting the importance of his long-term friendships.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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