Rising Star Han Soo-ah Reflects on Her Versatile Roles and Recent Achievements
Rising Star Han Soo-ah Reflects on Her Versatile Roles and Recent Achievements
Spotlight on Rising Stars: Catching Up with Promising Talents in the Entertainment Industry

"I used to think there wasn't a role that suited me perfectly. I saw it as a disadvantage, but through my work, I realized that not being typecast is actually a strength. Last year, I experienced a range of emotions playing characters from a 12-year-old to a runaway teen."

Actress Han Soo-ah, who debuted in the 2020 film 'Run Boy Run,' left a strong impression last year with her contrasting roles in KBS2's 'Beauty and the Pure-hearted Man' and MBC's 'Intimate Betrayer.' She won the Best New Actress award at the '2024 KBS Drama Awards.' We met her on the 22nd at the TenAsia office in Jungnim-dong, Seoul.
Rising Star Han Soo-ah Reflects on Her Versatile Roles and Recent Achievements
Rising Star Han Soo-ah Reflects on Her Versatile Roles and Recent Achievements
Han Soo-ah revealed, "I was the last to be cast in 'Intimate Betrayer.' I did the script reading just a week after being contacted." She added, "I didn't know the synopsis, only that Han Seok-kyu and (Chae) Won-bin were starring. I was excited to reunite with Won-bin, whom I worked with on my debut project."

She explained, "The biggest draw to 'Intimate Betrayer' was the dark character. I had mostly played youthful or cheerful roles, but this character was entirely different. The raw emotions and complex personality were captivating."
Rising Star Han Soo-ah Reflects on Her Versatile Roles and Recent Achievements
Rising Star Han Soo-ah Reflects on Her Versatile Roles and Recent Achievements
"The day before the awards, I lightly imagined 'What if I win?' But on the day, being in such a grand setting with senior actors, I was just in awe. The thought of winning naturally faded. Given the serious circumstances at the time, I focused on conveying my sincere condolences rather than my own feelings. I was so nervous, but receiving the award made me happy. Memories of watching the 'Drama Awards' with my mom as a child flashed through my mind, bringing tears to my eyes."

While filming 'Beauty and the Pure-hearted Man,' Han Soo-ah learned a lot from working with veteran actors. She said, "I had only acted with peers before. I was worried due to my lack of experience, but they took great care of me, and I gained so much." She emphasized, "I could comfortably express my opinions, and the seniors were so kind, leaving me with only happy memories."
Rising Star Han Soo-ah Reflects on Her Versatile Roles and Recent Achievements
Rising Star Han Soo-ah Reflects on Her Versatile Roles and Recent Achievements
In 'Beauty and the Pure-hearted Man,' Han Soo-ah played a character with the mental age of 12. She expressed gratitude, saying, "It was challenging to find the right tone initially, but thanks to Park Sang-won's advice, I gradually developed the character."

She also shared heartwarming stories about Im Ye-jin and Yoon Yoo-sun. Han Soo-ah said, "They adjusted the schedule so I could leave early and treated not just me but also our staff to meals." She added, "The project itself was great, but the time spent with the seniors was an honor."

Han Soo-ah couldn't choose between 'Intimate Betrayer' and 'Beauty and the Pure-hearted Man' as her favorite. She said, "'Beauty and the Pure-hearted Man' was 50 episodes, while 'Intimate Betrayer' was 10, with completely different genres and durations, but both had distinct charms, making them equally precious."
Rising Star Han Soo-ah Reflects on Her Versatile Roles and Recent Achievements
Rising Star Han Soo-ah Reflects on Her Versatile Roles and Recent Achievements
When asked about her motivation for acting, Han Soo-ah candidly replied, "Since I signed a contract, I have to give it my all." She then fondly mentioned her fans, "I'm confident my fans won't leave me." She smiled, "They sometimes ask me to do cute things like 'bunny ears' and even make Reels for me. It's so adorable and touching."

"I communicate with them through Bubble, and I'm always grateful. Watching a 50-episode drama from start to finish isn't easy, but their feedback moved me. A letter said, 'Don't get sick, and be happy,' and I feel the same way. I remember seeing their teary eyes when I met them after the awards. I strive to be an actor worthy of such love."

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