Rising Star Baek Sun-ho: From Aspiring Singer to Promising Actor

≪Lee So-jung's Star Catcher≫
Introducing the brightest emerging stars in the entertainment industry.

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"Before entering an all-boys high school, I used to receive a lot of gifts during my middle school years. I was quite short at 158cm in my first year, but I grew rapidly by the third year, gaining about 15cm in a year. I've continued to grow since then."

On the 13th of last month, I interviewed Baek Sun-ho at the TenAsia office in Jungnim-dong, Seoul. Born in 2003, he debuted in 2023 with the drama 'Men and Women' and has since appeared in 'Good or Bad Dong-jae' and 'O'PENing 2024 - Recipient'. This year, he is expanding his acting range by playing the role of singer-songwriter Lee Mark in 'Kick Kick Kick'. Known as a former trainee at Big Hit Music, Baek Sun-ho has been noted for his resemblance to soccer player Cho Gue-sung and his impressive height of 185cm.

"My mother is very straightforward and she mentioned that I look like Cho Gue-sung. Hearing that during the World Cup made me feel proud (laughs). I also often hear that I resemble B1A4's Jinyoung and The Boyz's Juyeon, and since both are amazing, it feels good to hear such comments."

When asked if his striking looks made him popular during school, he modestly replied, "I was just average." However, when pressed further, he shyly admitted, "I did receive a lot of gifts." Baek Sun-ho moved from Gangdong-gu to Gangnam-gu and attended an all-boys high school. He added, "I didn't really feel popular in high school."

An avid traveler, Baek Sun-ho recalled a challenging mountain climb in Italy as a pivotal life experience. "Google reviews said it wasn't high, but it was actually very tall. It took seven hours to reach the summit. Although I made it to the top, it was extremely tough," he shared.

Having trained as a singer at Big Hit Music and C-JeS Studio, he revealed that his dream of becoming an actor was stronger. When asked about moments he felt he made the right choice to switch to acting, Baek Sun-ho said, "When I pass auditions and read scripts."

"Reading scripts gives me a sense of accomplishment. In those moments, I feel glad I chose acting."

Baek Sun-ho expressed his love for music, saying, "I used to enjoy listening to LPs, but now I'm really into electronic music." Reflecting on his trainee days, he said, "My passion for music grew during that time, making the experience more memorable."

He also mentioned collecting vintage glasses as another hobby. "I collect non-prescription glasses," he confessed. When asked why he wasn't wearing glasses during the interview, Baek Sun-ho joked, "Since it's our first meeting, I wanted to present a more polished look."

Recently chosen as a model for the Polham 25SS collection alongside Kim Tae-ri, he showed a keen interest in fashion. Baek Sun-ho said, "I love clothes, but I'm also very interested in fashion culture itself." He added, "I constantly look things up, so I'm quite confident in my fashion knowledge," with a gleam in his eye.

His passion for travel was also evident. Baek Sun-ho said, "I really love fashion, music, movies, and travel. I plan to visit Iceland and Switzerland in August. I want to travel for the rest of my life. It's the driving force of my life." When asked what he would do if a project came up in August, he laughed and said, "I'd postpone the trip," emphasizing that work takes priority.

"I heard that August is the best time to experience Iceland's true scenery. It's been a long-time bucket list item, so I really want to go this year, but if a project opportunity arises, I can delay the trip."

In his three-year career, Baek Sun-ho has appeared in four productions. He named 'O'PENing 2024 - Recipient' as the most memorable. When asked why, he said, "We filmed for a month, and the short duration allowed for high concentration. I could immerse myself deeply in the character." When asked if longer shoots leave a lasting impression, he replied, "I prefer short and impactful projects. They suit me better," showing his clear perspective.

"Yesterday, while eating at a restaurant with a friend, a fan gave me a note on a napkin saying they enjoyed the drama. It was a happy moment. I hope to have more opportunities to meet fans for longer. I'll work hard, so please wait a little longer."

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