Lee Joo-bin Opens Up About Her Acting Journey on 'Ko So-young's Pub Restaurant'

Actress Lee Joo-bin shared her reasons for starting her acting career with minor roles on the YouTube show 'Ko So-young's Pub Restaurant'.

On October 10, a video titled 'Actress Lee Joo-bin's Ideal Type and Ko So-young's Ideal Type!' was uploaded on the show.

During the episode, Ko So-young praised Lee Joo-bin, saying, "Your face is so small and doll-like." Lee Joo-bin, expressing her admiration, responded, "I'm so nervous," and complimented Ko So-young in return, saying she was amazed to see her in person.

Before meeting Ko So-young, Lee Joo-bin called singer Kim Jae-joong for advice. She shared, "I was worried because I'm awkward on talk shows, especially with senior Ko So-young. But he assured me, 'She'll treat you well.'"

Known for her drinking prowess, Lee Joo-bin surprised everyone by downing her first drink in one shot. She commented, "My tolerance is decreasing. These days, I drink sparingly, about one to one and a half bottles of soju, so I don't feel bad the next day."

When Ko So-young mentioned, "I drink like there's no tomorrow," Lee Joo-bin affectionately replied, "Let's drink together like that someday."

Debuting at the relatively late age of 29, Ko So-young expressed surprise, saying, "The entertainment industry wouldn't leave you alone."

Lee Joo-bin explained, "I vaguely thought about acting when I was young, but I was street-cast. It wasn't as easy to debut as I thought. During my unknown period, I did various part-time jobs like working in restaurants, as a fitting model, in cafes, and at hair and makeup counters. I had a sense of responsibility and even worked an extra month if they offered incentives when I quit. That's why I had confidence that I could earn money somehow."

Having built her acting career from minor roles, Lee Joo-bin revealed, "I was never cast through auditions. Looking back, I realize I was terrible. I was a minor actor in a movie with Bae Jung-nam, and he made me coffee. Later, I also worked with him in 'Mr. Sunshine' and 'Spring Fever,' showing our unique connection."

By Kim Eun-jung, TenAsia Reporter eun@tenasia.co.kr