Rising Star Baek Sung-chul Talks About His Journey from Model to Actor and His Aspirations

"I've had quite a few part-time jobs before my debut, including working at a charcoal-grilled chicken feet restaurant and a wedding hall. I received a lot of tips at the chicken feet place (laughs)."

Baek Sung-chul, who debuted as a model in 2019 and transitioned to acting in 2021 with 'Not Yet Thirty,' shared this anecdote. He gained attention as 'Lee Young-ae's keyring man' in 'Inspector Koo' and earlier this year, he played the young Jung Woo-sung in 'Say You Love Me.' With his charming looks and tall stature, Baek Sung-chul has captured hearts and is now starring in his first mutual romance with Shin Do-hyun in 'Drunken Romance.'

An interview with Baek Sung-chul, who plays a supporting role in 'Drunken Romance,' was conducted at the Ten Asia headquarters in Jungnim-dong, Seoul, on the 10th. 'Drunken Romance' is a drama about the romance between Yong-joo (played by Kim Se-jeong), a top salesperson at a liquor company who hides her emotions, and Min-joo (played by Lee Jong-won), a brewery CEO who catches emotions. In the drama, Baek Sung-chul plays Oh Chan-hwi, a free spirit who travels the country in a toast truck.

With his small face and unreal proportions, Baek Sung-chul is unmistakably a former model. "I'm wearing contact lenses now, but I used to wear very thick glasses in school. Despite that, I was quite popular in middle school," he joked. Although he describes himself as introverted and shy, he candidly shared, "My middle school was famous for its cherry blossom path. Many students visited, and I often felt their glances as I left school."

He said, "'Drunken Romance' is my first time acting in a mutual romance. I was very nervous before filming, but thanks to Shin Do-hyun's friendly demeanor on set, I was able to enjoy the shoot." He expressed gratitude towards Shin Do-hyun, saying, "She's easygoing, so we got along well."

"I want to play a leading role in a romance drama at least once. Maybe that day will come as I gain more experience (laughs). After 'Inspector Koo,' I've often been called 'keyring man,' 'younger man,' and received compliments like 'I want to carry you in my pocket.' It's been three years since then, and I feel like I've matured in appearance and physique. I want to earn the new nickname 'romance master.'"

Baek Sung-chul, who said that his real personality only matches about 20% with the bright character Oh Chan-hwi, shared, "My goal was to portray a high-energy character without awkwardness. In my previous work, I played an assistant who followed someone around. This contrasting character was a challenge for me. I thought a lot and did my best. I hope viewers think, 'That actor must naturally have a bright personality.'"

"To raise my energy before shooting, I bought a shouting jar from Coupang. It's a jar-like prop that doesn't let sound escape. I would shout into it to raise my energy before filming (laughs)."

Although he emphasized his usual calm and quiet nature, Baek Sung-chul was full of humor and laughter throughout the interview. He said, "I'm not the type to take the initiative. I think I'm not very sociable, but working on 'Drunken Romance' has made my personality a bit brighter."

"When I'm alone at home, I find myself mumbling to myself without realizing it. I never used to do that. I was surprised to hear myself say things like 'Should I drink water?' when I'm about to drink water."

Baek Sung-chul confessed that he misses his original calm personality, saying, "After spending six months as Chan-hwi, my energy level has become similar. Now, I want to return to the original Baek Sung-chul. I want to rest quietly at home without speaking."

With a month left until the new year, when asked about his new goals, Baek Sung-chul expressed, "I want to do a historical drama. My father loves historical dramas, and I want to make him proud by adding one to my filmography." He added, "After 'The Witch's Diner,' I want to wear a school uniform and act in a youth drama again. It's been a short time since I graduated, so I think it would suit me well," he smiled.

"When I think of my fans, so many things I want to say come to mind. There are people who have liked me since my modeling days. I recently started using Bubble to communicate with them. Thanks to them, I'm living a happy life. I feel like I need to give back for the love I receive. I want to be an actor who spreads positive influence and brings happiness. I'll work hard to achieve my dreams."

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