Actor Ryu Seung-ryong has shared heartwarming news.
Last year, Ryu Seung-ryong showcased his strong presence across various fields, including dramas, OTT series, and advertisements. Following his acclaimed performances in Disney's original series 'Pine: Rustic People' and JTBC's 'The Story of Kim Manager at a Large Company in Seoul,' he continues to make an impact off-camera in 2026. Through quiet yet consistent acts of kindness, he spreads warmth throughout society, offering new inspiration.
His journey began with a focus on neighbors in need. Ryu participated in a public campaign by the Korea Foundation for Persons with Disabilities to support families in crisis. Deeply resonating with the campaign's mission to aid families facing unexpected challenges, he expressed, “I joined with the hope that the new year would be an opportunity to reflect on our neighbors' lives.”
His concern for neighbors naturally extended to life and nature. Ryu, who has shown a keen interest in these areas, participated as a narrator in SBS Special's 'Strange Zoo,' which highlights the lives of animals and the world beyond zoos. He shared, “I was moved just by reading the script. I hope to visit Cheongju Zoo someday,” demonstrating deep engagement and empathy, which added weight to the program's message. Additionally, he joined as a moderator for the independent documentary film 'Pasi,' which re-examines the history of islands and seas, garnering attention.
Furthermore, he lent his voice to remember and honor social responsibilities. He participated in the 'Korea Patriots Housing Support Campaign' with Professor Seo Kyung-duk of Sungshin Women's University and the international housing welfare nonprofit Korea Habitat. With his deep and resonant voice, he added sincerity to the stories of patriots, encouraging widespread interest and participation in the campaign.
Ryu's positive influence extends to his peers in the cultural and arts community. Recently, he contributed his talents to the audiobook project '100 Actors, Reading Our Prose' by the Korea Theater Welfare Foundation and Communication Books. He supported the project's mission, where proceeds from the participating actors' readings go towards emergency medical and living expenses for theater artists. Ryu plans to read Kim Gu's 'My Wish,' reflecting on the 'power of high culture' that Kim aspired to, and offering a message of support to ensure theater artists do not lose their dreams and courage.
From neighbors in need to nature and animals, patriots who served the nation, and colleagues in the cultural and arts sectors, Ryu's interests have expanded widely. His past charitable activities, such as preserving Jeju Olle Trail, sharing coal briquettes, supporting meals for the elderly, remembering independence activists, narrating nature restoration documentaries, and volunteering for the Baengnyeongdo Sagot Beach preservation project, align with this ethos. His sincere actions, distinct from his intense on-screen charisma, continue to resonate deeply with many today.
Kim Se-ah, TenAsia Reporter haesmik@tenasia.co.kr