TV
Shin Ye-eun Reflects on Her Role in 'Jeong Nyeon' and Her Journey as an Actress

On the 20th, actress Shin Ye-eun shared her thoughts on playing various male roles in the tvN weekend drama 'Jeong Nyeon' during an interview with TenAsia at a cafe in Gangnam, Seoul.
'Jeong Nyeon' is a drama set in the 1950s, following the story of 'Jeong Nyeon,' a natural-born sound genius, as she competes and grows to become the best national theater actress after the Korean War. Shin Ye-eun plays Heo Yeong-seo, an elite member of the Maeran National Theater troupe with a prestigious family background.

Regarding her character's similarity to herself, she said, "It changed every time. Sometimes, when people said I resembled the character too much, I was happy because it's a compliment. But when Yeong-seo struggled and couldn't enjoy herself, I didn't want to resemble that. So, I say I'm about 50% similar," she laughed. Between Jeong Nyeon and Heo Yeong-seo, she feels "closer to Yeong-seo."

Shin Ye-eun expressed admiration for the role of Moon Ok-kyung, played by Jung Eun-chae. She said, "She's so handsome, and I don't think I could take on that challenge. I don't know if I could pull off a short haircut like that. Ok-kyung was filled with Eun-chae's unique charm."
When asked about the most gratifying compliment from viewers, Shin Ye-eun shyly smiled and said, "There are many. Comments like, 'Was she the one on 'Running Man'? Was she Yeon-jin in 'The Glory'?' made me happy because they suggested I have a diverse range of faces and bring freshness."

"While playing Yeong-seo, I realized that if I love myself and am satisfied with my life, everything else will follow. So, don't get tired and keep working hard. Focus on what you do well rather than what you lack," she said. "Compliments about myself? I have a lot to offer in terms of looks and roles I can express. I can play both good and evil roles, and I'm an actress without limits." (laughs)
By Tae Yuna, TenAsia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr