Ha Jung-woo Returns to TV Drama After 19 Years with 'How to Become a Landlord in Korea'
Ha Jung-woo, who recently confirmed his relationship with actress Cha Jung-won, 11 years his junior, is making a comeback to TV dramas after 19 years. The new tvN drama 'How to Become a Landlord in Korea' features a star-studded cast, raising expectations.

On the afternoon of the 9th, a press conference for the new tvN weekend drama 'How to Become a Landlord in Korea' was held at The Link Hotel in Guro-gu, Seoul. The event was attended by Ha Jung-woo, Im Soo-jung, Kim Jun-han, Jung Soo-jung, Shim Eun-kyung, and director Im Pil-sung.

'How to Become a Landlord in Korea' is a suspense drama about a debt-ridden landlord who gets involved in a fake kidnapping scheme to protect his family and property.

Ha Jung-woo Returns to TV Drama After 19 Years with 'How to Become a Landlord in Korea'
Ha Jung-woo plays the role of Ki Soo-jong, a landlord who has acquired a building through extensive loans. When asked about his return to TV after 19 years, he humorously remarked, "Do people still watch TV in their living rooms these days?" He continued, "It hasn't really sunk in yet. I'm not used to being evaluated based on ratings. The filming process wasn't much different from shooting a movie. I think it will start to feel real once the broadcast begins." Regarding his determination, Ha Jung-woo said, "I poured all my determination into the filming. Now, I'm humbly waiting for the viewers' evaluations."

He added, "I'm aware that the box office performance of films hasn't been great since COVID-19. However, I don't plan to change my strategy or try new methods. I've always approached each project with the same mindset and greater determination. I have no regrets." He further stated, "I believe it's natural to experience such phases in the course of one's career. It's something to endure. On a personal note, I hope the night passes quickly and a bright morning arrives for this project."

Ha Jung-woo Returns to TV Drama After 19 Years with 'How to Become a Landlord in Korea'
Im Soo-jung plays the role of Kim Sun, Ki Soo-jong's strong-willed wife. Regarding reuniting with Jung Soo-jung (Krystal) after the 2023 film 'Cobweb', she said, "I wanted to act with her again and hoped to meet in another project, and the opportunity came sooner than expected." She added, "The script was intriguing, and hearing that charming actors were involved made me want to participate. The reunion of the two Soo-jungs is a highlight of this project."

Ha Jung-woo Returns to TV Drama After 19 Years with 'How to Become a Landlord in Korea'
Shim Eun-kyung, returning to Korean dramas after six years, said, "I didn't feel much pressure. However, I was concerned about how to build a character I hadn't portrayed before." She continued, "I had in-depth discussions with the director about the character's basic traits before filming. The director advised me to act naturally, and that advice resonated with me."

She added, "I thought the character's diligence was a key aspect. I focused on that while acting. I had a thirst for playing a villain. Initially, there was pressure, but I gradually found joy in acting, and going to the set became truly enjoyable."

Ha Jung-woo Returns to TV Drama After 19 Years with 'How to Become a Landlord in Korea'
Shim Eun-kyung plays Yona, a Real Capital employee pressuring the debt-ridden landlord Ki Soo-jong (Ha Jung-woo). Taking on a villain role for the first time, Shim Eun-kyung expressed, "If viewers say, 'That character is really bad,' or 'How could they do that?' it would be the highest compliment." She hopes her character will heighten tension and create unpredictable dynamics in the drama.

She added, "In 'Money Game', I was often seen as a righteous character, but this time, I want to hear reactions like, 'What is that person up to?' Hearing such comments would make me happy."

'How to Become a Landlord in Korea' premieres on the 14th at 9:10 PM.

Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr
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