Actor Gil Yong-woo Reflects on His Career and Memorable Roles on 'Baekban Journey'

On the recent episode of TV Chosun's 'Baekban Journey with Heo Young-man,' actor Gil Yong-woo reminisced about his past roles, including a memorable performance with a young Kim Hye-soo.

During the episode, Gil Yong-woo joined Heo Young-man to enjoy a traditional meal in Hongcheon. When Heo commented on his infrequent TV appearances, Gil revealed, "I'm currently teaching at Baekseok Arts University." He proudly mentioned his student, Kim Yoon-woo, who recently won the Best New Actor award at the MBC Drama Awards for his role in the historical drama 'Lovers.'

Currently starring in a theater production, Gil shared, "I'm playing Claudius, the villainous uncle in 'Hamlet.'" Heo humorously remarked, "You seem too kind for such a role," bringing laughter to the set.

Debuting as an MBC talent in 1977, Gil Yong-woo became a freelancer in 1986 and starred alongside a high school sophomore Kim Hye-soo in the KBS drama 'Samo Gok.'

Reflecting on that time, Gil recalled, "I often carried Kim Hye-soo on my back for scenes where we were running away. I remember hurting my back during those shoots."

He also shared insights into the challenging conditions of past productions, saying, "The food props were fake. They were just models, but later, when a kitchen set was introduced, a chef would cook on set. The food was so delicious that I would eat it until the scene changed. Sometimes, I would skip meals just to enjoy the on-set food during filming."

With a career spanning 50 years, Gil Yong-woo expressed, "As I understand more about acting, it becomes more daunting over time. I still dream of playing Shylock, the Jewish moneylender in Shakespeare's 'The Merchant of Venice.'"

He candidly added, "Actors often desire roles that allow for transformation, but sometimes the roles available to me are limited, which can be frustrating."

Heo Young-man concluded with words of encouragement, saying, "I hope Gil Yong-woo is remembered as someone who dedicated himself to acting and truly showed what it means to be an actor."

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