Comedian Lee Su-ji on Confidence, Family, and Her Unique Comedy Journey

"After marriage and childbirth, I've gained confidence. My husband loves every aspect of me, which allows me to enjoy trying new things."

In a recent roundtable interview at a café in Samcheong-dong, Seoul, Lee Su-ji, known for her unique charm on 'SNL Korea' and various YouTube channels, shared insights into her life and career. Lee married video producer Kim Jong-hak in 2018 and welcomed a son four years later. Her husband was initially a fan, and their relationship blossomed into marriage.

This year, Lee has been recognized as a 'master of transformation' with appearances in variety shows like 'Office Workers', 'SNL' Season 7, and the drama 'New Recruit 3'. After joining Coupang's subsidiary CP Entertainment, she won the Best Female Entertainer Award at the 61st Baeksang Arts Awards, solidifying her presence in the industry.

When asked about her husband's fandom before their marriage, Lee smiled and said, "It's still the same." She added, "He finds everything I do adorable, but he's honest about my work, giving feedback like 'I wish you wouldn't do that' or 'That wasn't very funny.'"

Lee revealed that she was once hesitant to show her belly before marriage, but her husband's love and support after childbirth gave her confidence and freedom. She also shared a touching story about her late mother-in-law, expressing regret for not spending more time with her.

Known for her exceptional impersonations and unique comedy, Lee often finds herself at the center of controversy. Addressing past criticisms of mocking celebrities, she clarified, "I never targeted anyone specifically, but I understand the public's reaction and strive to be more responsible and cautious."

Lee admitted that relaxing at home is challenging because she analyzes entertainment shows instead of enjoying them. However, she finds joy in messages from fans who say she made them laugh.

"I'm grateful for every day filled with schedules. The hiatus made me appreciate this time more. Without it, I might have become arrogant. Now, I can laugh as much as I cried."

After the cancellation of 'Gag Concert' in 2020, Lee experienced a slump, enduring a year and a half break before joining 'SNL' as a regular crew member. Reflecting on that period, she shared her aspirations for a solo comedy show where she could interact closely with the audience.

As an INFP, Lee finds joy in performing comedic roles that her shy self would otherwise avoid. "Creating new characters is so much fun. Even during this interview, I'm thinking about making a character based on the journalists here," she laughed. "This job teaches me about different aspects of myself."

During a time when comedy stages were dwindling, Lee carved her own path, continuously creating characters and bringing laughter to diverse audiences. Despite her bold on-screen persona, she possesses a shy and sensitive nature, with her signature wit shining through.

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