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Rising Star Han Soo-ah Reflects on Her Versatile Roles and Recent Achievements

"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.

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."

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."

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."

"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