Park Min-young Returns to TV with 'Siren': Can She Reclaim Her Success?

《Tae Yuna's Drama Insights》
Tae Yuna from TenAsia brings you in-depth insights into dramas based on firsthand experiences. In this era of drama overflow, we aim to be your eyes and ears.

---

Actress Park Min-young is set to make her return to the small screen with the drama 'Siren,' a project that required her to undergo extreme weight management. After experiencing a slump with consecutive low ratings in recent dramas and variety shows, all eyes are on whether she can reestablish her presence on tvN, known for its 'undefeated' track record.

Park Min-young will be returning to tvN after two years with the new drama 'Siren,' premiering on March 2. 'Siren' is a romantic thriller that revolves around Han Seol-ah, a captivating insurance fraud suspect, and Cha Woo-seok (played by Wi Ha-jun), who investigates the truth behind the deaths surrounding her. Park Min-young takes on the role of Han Seol-ah, a chief auctioneer at Royal Auction and an insurance fraud suspect.

At the production presentation held on the 23rd, Park Min-young described her character Han Seol-ah as "professional on the outside but extremely lonely when alone." She added, "This character doesn't eat. At home, there's only water and alcohol," revealing that she lived on water and alcohol to immerse herself in the role. During filming, she drank over 3 liters of water daily and experienced tinnitus due to physical exhaustion.

Park Min-young's weight loss has raised concerns multiple times. At the 'Confidence Man KR' production presentation last September, her gaunt appearance sparked health rumors. Previously, she had lost weight down to 37kg for her role as a terminally ill patient in tvN's 'Marry My Husband,' which heightened worries.

In response, Park Min-young clarified on social media, "I am currently dieting healthily for the 'Siren' character," and assured fans, "Although I lost a bit more due to a hectic schedule, I am healthy. I'm eating three meals a day, so please don't worry."

'Siren' is expected to be a turning point for Park Min-young. Her previous appearances in TV Chosun's 'Confidence Man KR' and the variety show 'Perfect Glow' both struggled with ratings below 1%. 'Confidence Man KR' was initially considered for tvN but moved to TV Chosun, which didn't align with its target audience. 'Perfect Glow,' centered around opening a beauty shop in New York, dropped to below 1% ratings after just two episodes.

Conversely, Park Min-young has consistently performed well in tvN dramas. From 'What's Wrong with Secretary Kim' to 'Her Private Life,' 'Love in Contract,' and 'Marry My Husband,' she has achieved high ratings and popularity, establishing herself as a 'trustworthy actress' on tvN. Notably, 'Marry My Husband' reached a peak rating of 12%, ranking second in tvN's Monday-Tuesday drama history.

As Park Min-young returns to tvN with 'Siren,' the public is eager to see if she can reaffirm her presence and witness the fruits of her rigorous efforts.

Tae Yuna, TenAsia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr