Rising Star Jo Han-gyeol Shines in 'Undercover Miss Hong' with Nuanced Performance

Jo Han-gyeol, a 2002-born actor who recently signed with Sublime, home to stars like Ko So-young, Nana, and Seo Ye-ji, is making waves with his deepened emotional performance in 'Undercover Miss Hong.' Previously, he caught attention by revealing on the web variety show 'Hong Seok-cheon's Jewel Box' that he was cast while in a sauna, wearing nothing.

'Undercover Miss Hong' is a retro office comedy drama set in the late 1990s. It follows elite securities supervisor Hong Geum-bo (played by Park Shin-hye) as she goes undercover at a securities firm to track suspicious financial flows. Jo Han-gyeol plays Albert Oh, the free-spirited cinephile grandson of Hanmin Securities' chairman and the only son of executive director Oh Deok-kyu.

Albert Oh, portrayed by Jo Han-gyeol, is a character who usually lets situations pass with mischief and ease. However, he faces a change when confronted with the intense narrative of conflicts surrounding Geum-bo and organizational restructuring.

During a climactic moment of conflict between Manager Cha (played by Lim Chul-soo) and Geum-bo, Albert conveys his feelings for Geum-bo through silent actions rather than exaggerated emotions. Even as the crisis management team disbands and Geum-bo submits her resignation in despair, Albert's wavering eyes reveal his unease. Jo Han-gyeol skillfully builds these subtle emotional shifts, adding depth to his character. Additionally, when Manager Bang (played by Kim Do-hyun) advises, "Be good to your sister," it sparks suspicion about Geum-bo's identity, heightening curiosity and tension for the unfolding plot.

In episodes 9 and 10, Jo Han-gyeol's portrayal of a positive character who illuminates those around him stood out. Without overt emotional outbursts, he effectively conveyed the character's emotional turmoil caused by the disbandment of the crisis management team and Geum-bo's resignation. He seamlessly portrayed Albert Oh as a pillar of Hanmin Securities, showing responsibility and sincerity as he moved through the company, supporting Geum-bo and his team with a smile.

Jo Han-gyeol leaves a lasting impression by gradually unfolding Albert Oh's transformation, from his playful banter and relaxed demeanor towards his crush Geum-bo to his increasingly profound gaze. As Albert shoulders the responsibility of the team and faces reality for the first time, viewers are keenly watching Jo Han-gyeol's next narrative steps.

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