Transgender Pioneer Harisu Opens Up About Challenges in the Entertainment Industry

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Harisu, known as the first transgender celebrity in South Korea, candidly shared the struggles she faced during her early years in the entertainment industry.

On the 10th, Harisu appeared alongside Monica on the web variety show 'Pajama Party' on the 'This Is the Real Final' channel.

In the released video, Harisu opened up about the difficulties she encountered from the beginning of her career. She revealed, "I entered the entertainment industry as a male student in 1991," adding, "Since my legal gender was male, many contracts were either abandoned or fell through at the negotiation stage."

Harisu particularly noted, "A few years ago, I received a movie offer, but they threatened to out me as transgender. I didn't agree, so I couldn't proceed with many contracts. I spent about eight months contemplating whether I should quit the entertainment industry."

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Regarding the challenges she faced while shooting a cosmetics advertisement, Harisu disclosed shocking experiences, saying, "There were demands to verify if I was a woman, including requests for sexual relations or to undress. I had to give up roles and couldn't sign many contracts."

Harisu also reflected, "I underwent gender reassignment surgery because I wanted to live as a woman, but that was actually the starting point of my life."

Meanwhile, Harisu gained attention as South Korea's first transgender entertainer, debuting in the music industry in 2001 with her first album 'Temptation.' She has since been active in dramas and variety shows.

Reporter Na-yeon Cho, Ten Asia nybluebook@tenasia.co.kr