Jung Il-woo Discusses Income Management and Career Journey on 'Baekban Journey'

Jung Il-woo opened up about managing his income on the recent episode of TV Chosun's 'Baekban Journey with Heo Young-man'.

On the October 8th broadcast, actor Jung Il-woo joined the show to explore culinary delights in Boeun, Chungbuk. During the episode, Jung revealed, "I've lost 5kg while filming a drama. I'm managing my weight, but today is my cheat day," expressing his excitement. As he indulged in the local delicacies, he humorously remarked, "I shouldn't overeat today," drawing attention.

Returning to the small screen after two years with KBS's weekend drama 'Splendid Days', Jung Il-woo shared, "I'm much happier when I'm working. When there's a hiatus, it feels like being in a tunnel. Now, I'm finally seeing the light and coming out," he explained.

Jung candidly discussed his financial management, revealing that during his peak working period before military enlistment, he worked on seven projects in a year and a half. "My mother used to manage my finances, but I started handling them myself in my late 20s. Since then, I haven't saved much," he admitted with a laugh.

Having debuted in 2006 with the popular MBC sitcom 'Unstoppable High Kick', Jung Il-woo is approaching his 20th anniversary in the industry next year. With around 30 projects under his belt, he shared the casting story of his debut role. "The audition for 'Unstoppable High Kick' had a 400 to 1 competition ratio. When I asked the director why I was chosen, he said, 'Because you have a nice smile,'" Jung recalled with a smile.

Known as the 'Prince of Historical Dramas' after appearing in six period pieces, Jung Il-woo noted, "I've filmed more historical dramas than my peers, so I often travel to rural or mountainous areas." When asked why he frequently receives offers for historical dramas, he proudly stated, "They say my face is modern yet suits traditional Korean attire well."

Reported by Kim Eun-jung, TenAsia. eun@tenasia.co.kr