Kim Jae-kyung Completes First Japanese Drama 'DREAM STAGE' with Success

Kim Jae-kyung, who recently announced her marriage to a non-celebrity in 2024, has successfully completed her first Japanese drama. The final episode of TBS's Friday drama 'DREAM STAGE' was released on the 14th. The series tells the story of a former genius producer who was once ousted from the industry and seven dropout trainees from a small Korean entertainment agency, who come together to pursue their dreams, transcending generations and nationalities. Kim Jae-kyung played the role of 'Park Ji-soo,' a talented producer, and shared her thoughts on the show's conclusion.

Former Rainbow girl group member Kim Jae-kyung portrayed 'Park Ji-soo' with a stable performance, balancing cold charisma and passionate dedication to her work. Her fluent Japanese enhanced the drama's immersion, and she delicately expressed the character's emotional changes as the series progressed. In the final episode, she severed ties with Choi Ki-yong (played by Lee Yi-kyung) and grew into an independent character, bringing the story to a satisfying close.

Through her agency, Namoo Actors, Kim Jae-kyung shared her reflections on the project. She stated, "This was a new challenge for me. As my first Japanese drama, it was a unique experience both linguistically and environmentally. 'DREAM STAGE' came at a time when I was contemplating my acting career, and it became a meaningful experience. Overcoming the language barrier pushed me to delve deeper into my acting, and this time will be a great asset to my future acting endeavors."

She continued, "I am sincerely grateful to actors Nakamura Tomoya, Ikeda Elaiza, and Ha Yeon-soo, who always helped me with warm hearts in this new environment and language. Thanks to them, I found some comfort and enjoyment on set. Also, thanks to the members of 'NAZE' and 'TORINNER,' I was able to reminisce and laugh a lot. The directors and all the staff made efforts to communicate with me, improving their Korean skills by the end of filming, which was a great support. I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone once again."

Finally, she expressed her gratitude and future aspirations, saying, "I will cherish the precious memories from 'DREAM STAGE' and strive to become an actor who can deliver great performances. Thank you to everyone who loved 'DREAM STAGE.'"

Kim Jae-kyung is set to return in the Wave original drama 'Reverse,' sparking curiosity about her future endeavors and the new facets she will showcase.

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