Shim Eun-kyung Takes on Her First Villain Role in 'How to Become a Building Owner in Korea'

Shim Eun-kyung, who debuted as an actress in 2003, is taking on her first villain role and has expressed her anticipation for the challenge.

On the afternoon of the 9th, a press conference for tvN's new weekend drama 'How to Become a Building Owner in Korea' (written by Oh Han-ki, directed by Im Pil-sung) was held at The Link Hotel in Guro-gu, Seoul. The event was attended by Ha Jung-woo, Lim Soo-jung, Kim Jun-han, Jung Soo-jung, Shim Eun-kyung, and director Im Pil-sung.

'How to Become a Building Owner in Korea' is a suspense drama that tells the story of a debt-ridden building owner who gets involved in a fake kidnapping scheme to protect his family and property.

Shim Eun-kyung plays Yona, an operative at Real Capital who pressures the debt-laden building owner Ki Soo-jong (played by Ha Jung-woo). Taking on her first villain role since her debut, Shim described her character as "the most morally questionable and bad character I've ever played."

When asked about her return to Korean dramas after six years, she said, "I didn't feel any pressure. If anything, I was most concerned about how to build a character with a personality I hadn't tried before." She added, "I discussed many aspects of the character with the director before filming, including the basic personality. The director advised me to 'act like yourself,' which resonated with me as I approached the character with a bit of my real self."

Shim Eun-kyung noted, "Yona has a diligent side. I focused my performance around that keyword." She continued, "I've personally had a thirst for villain roles. Initially, there was some pressure, but I gradually found joy in acting, and going to the set became truly enjoyable."

Having practiced for months for action scenes, Shim said, "Yona is a very bad person, so if viewers think 'That character is really bad' or 'How could she do that?' it would be the highest compliment." She added with a smile, "I hope my role adds tension and creates unpredictable twists in the drama's progression."

She concluded, "In 'Money Game,' I received a lot of feedback about playing a righteous character. This time, I want viewers to wonder, 'What kind of person is she?' Hearing such comments would make me happy."

'How to Become a Building Owner in Korea' premieres on the 14th at 9:10 PM.

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