Kim Ji-won's Country
Kim Ji-won from TENASIA brings you the essence of the vast world of content. From must-see classics to highly anticipated new releases, enjoy a diverse range of recommendations.
Actor Kim Woo-bin is receiving a flood of congratulations as news breaks of his upcoming marriage to Shin Mina, his partner of ten years, next month. Known for his heart-fluttering roles in romance dramas, Kim Woo-bin continues to captivate audiences with his on-screen love stories, even as he finds his real-life romance with Shin Mina.
Kim Woo-bin entered the entertainment industry as a model in 2008. His passion was evident even as a high school student aspiring to be a model. He famously wrote dozens of inquiries on the bulletin board of his desired university and even sent a heartfelt handwritten letter to a professor expressing his desire to join the modeling department.
The letter detailed his efforts to overcome his slender physique by working out and consuming 20 eggs, potatoes, and sweet potato supplements daily. When this letter surfaced online, netizens were impressed by Kim Woo-bin's dedication. His transformation from a 'narrow-shouldered' youth to a 'broad-shouldered' star showcases his determination.
In 2011, Kim Woo-bin began his acting career in earnest. He gained recognition with his role as a student in love with his teacher, Seo Yi-soo (played by Kim Ha-neul), in the 2012 drama 'A Gentleman's Dignity.' However, it was 'The Heirs' that catapulted him to stardom.
During his peak, Kim Woo-bin was diagnosed with nasopharyngeal cancer in 2017. Despite the fear, he considered it a "vacation given by the heavens," using the time to reflect on his past and spend quality time with family. Reflecting on his battle, he said, "I don't remember the pain. It was probably too intense. But only the good things remain. I learned to love myself, love others, and give back the love I received. I realized there were many things I took for granted."
With a positive mindset, Kim Woo-bin overcame cancer and returned to the screen in 2022 with projects like the film 'Alienoid,' the drama 'Our Blues,' and the variety show 'Unexpected Business.' This year, he charmed audiences with his role as a captivating genie in the drama 'Genie, Make A Wish' and showcased his wit in the variety show 'Green Bean, Red Bean spin-off : Joy Pops Laugh Pops.'
On the 20th, Kim Woo-bin announced his marriage to Shin Mina, saying, "I want to build a family with the person I've been with for a long time and walk together. I would appreciate your support to make our journey warmer." Known for his positive attitude, courteous demeanor, and charitable acts, Kim Woo-bin is a role model in society. As he prepares for the next chapter of his life with Shin Mina, let's revisit some of his memorable romance roles.
Written by Kim Eun-sook, 'The Heirs' is a high-teen romance drama about the lives, love, and friendships of the top 1% wealthy high school students. Kim Woo-bin played Choi Young-do, a student at Jeguk High School and heir to a hotel.
Choi Young-do is a secondary male lead who has an unrequited love for Cha Eun-sang (played by Park Shin-hye). As a hotel heir, he is arrogant and domineering, yet shows a pure-hearted side to his love interest, making him a character viewers couldn't help but love.
'Uncontrollably Fond' tells the story of two people who were separated by a painful fate in their youth and meet again to navigate a prickly yet tender love story. Kim Woo-bin played Shin Joon-young, a top star living with a terminal illness. His co-star Suzy played No Eul, a materialistic documentary producer.
The drama captures the gradual affection between the protagonists, initially separated by misunderstandings. While the setup may seem clichéd, it carries a 'classic' charm. Kim Woo-bin and Suzy reunited for another romantic project in this year's Netflix release 'Genie, Make A Wish.'
Written by Noh Hee-kyung, 'Our Blues' is an omnibus drama about the lives of residents in Jeju's Purung Village. It marked Kim Woo-bin's return to dramas after his battle with nasopharyngeal cancer.
Kim Woo-bin played Park Jung-joon, a diligent and good-natured young captain. He ferries haenyeo (female divers) between the sea and land, earning a living by fishing and supplying fresh fish to local restaurants. His portrayal of a wholesome and robust young man brought smiles to viewers. His character's unwavering affection for Lee Young-ok (played by Han Ji-min), a young haenyeo with a twin sister with Down syndrome, added a romantic element that captivated audiences. Interestingly, his real-life partner Shin Mina also appeared in the drama, though they were part of different love lines.
Kim Ji-won, TENASIA Reporter bella@tenasia.co.kr