Han So-hee, star of 'Project Y', reveals her pursuit of growth both in her characters and personal life. Known for her tendency to worry, Han aims to relax more during her downtime.
Recently, I met Han So-hee at a café in Samcheong-dong, Seoul, where she discussed her role in the film 'Project Y'.
'Project Y' tells the story of Mi-seon and Do-kyung, who, while dreaming of a different tomorrow in the heart of a bustling city, find themselves at the edge of a cliff, stealing black money and gold bars. Han So-hee plays Mi-seon, who loses everything due to an unexpected incident just before taking over a flower shop. Jeon Jong-seo portrays Do-kyung, who makes a living through illegal taxi services.
When asked about her criteria for selecting roles, Han So-hee shared, "I feel like roles come to me rather than me choosing them. I often get characters who face hardships, like losing a parent or dealing with death. I prefer characters who overcome difficult situations over those living ordinary lives."
On her preference for growth-oriented characters, Han humorously added, "Not anymore. I'd like to play a rich daughter living comfortably." She continued, "I believe I have a strength, a weapon, in expressing emotions more realistically during times of sadness and hardship. I think I understand emotions more deeply, which is why I've preferred such characters." When asked if there was a turning point, she laughed, "It's tiring to always fight, break, and cry."
Regarding the challenges faced during the filming of 'Project Y', Han said, "Aside from the day-night reversal, there were many energetic scenes, so it wasn't as hard as I remember. When you focus, you forget the cold. It wasn't that difficult." She added, "With set filming times, the environment for actors and staff has improved. We can focus and express everything within that time. I'm fortunate."
Han So-hee also emphasizes 'growth' in her personal life. She stated, "I believe there's no end to 'learning'. Now in my 30s, I think, 'I should live better than last year.' Then I wonder, 'What is the standard for living well?' It's about having the ability to control myself. That's a form of learning. Excelling in my profession as an actor is also learning. Growth is my main focus."
When asked if she often feels inadequate, Han replied, "I always think I'm lacking." She continued, "You need to be healthy to work, but I haven't taken care of my health. Health is directly linked to work. I prioritized work too much. For the past year to a year and a half, I neglected my health, which sometimes caused issues on set. I've always thought about making my inner and outer self healthy."
On changes made to improve her health, Han humorously admitted, "I started drinking again after quitting." She added, "I try to relax without overthinking when I can. I tend to overthink and worry a lot, always considering the worst-case scenario. It often troubles me. Even when told to rest, I can't. Now, I'm trying to relax and let go a bit when I rest."
By Kim Ji-won, TenAsia Reporter bella@tenasia.co.kr