Park Han-byul Returns to TV, Avoids Discussing Husband Amidst Culinary Journey

Park Han-byul, known for her 'ulzzang' status, made a return to television on TV Chosun's 'Sikgaek Heo Young-man's Baekban Journey,' where she explored the culinary delights of Dangjin on the west coast.

During the episode aired on the 10th, Park shared her life update, mentioning her seven-year hiatus from broadcasting. "I've been raising my two children in Jeju. They are 8 and 4 years old," she said.

When asked if her 4-year-old cried when she left in the morning, Park humorously replied, "The younger one doesn't care who comes or goes. He follows anyone who gives him candy," bringing laughter to the set.

Recently, Park completed filming for the movie 'Karma,' featuring actors Park Ho-san and Park Si-hoo, humorously noting, "It's the 'Three Parks.'" In the film, she plays a producer documenting the life of a crime victim.

Park, who rose to fame as one of the 'Top 5 Ulzzangs' alongside stars like Ku Hye-sun and Lee Ju-yeon, reminisced about her sudden rise to fame. "I was just an ordinary student, but overnight, everyone recognized me on the subway or streets," she recalled.

Heo Young-man praised her, saying, "Even if you weren't one of the top ulzzangs, you'd still turn heads." Park responded to compliments about her beauty with a smile, "I never tire of hearing I'm pretty. It's something I can enjoy for a lifetime."

After a two-year break post-debut, Park shared her struggles with typecasting. "I kept getting similar roles, always in heels, which I don't even own at home. It was tough," she admitted. "Now, even though new roles are challenging, I've come to appreciate the art of acting and find it enjoyable."

Park Han-byul married former Yuri Holdings CEO Yoo In-seok in 2017, with whom she has two sons. Yoo was implicated in the 2019 Burning Sun scandal and received a suspended sentence in 2020 for embezzlement and soliciting prostitution. Park attempted a comeback in April with 'Dad and Me,' but the public's response was lukewarm.

Kim Eun-jung, Ten Asia Reporter eun@tenasia.co.kr