Choi Bul-am Chooses Love Over Theater: A Journey from Stage to Screen

Renowned actor Choi Bul-am chose love over theater.

The MBC documentary special 'Paha, This is Choi Bul-am,' aired on the 5th, spotlighted the 67-year acting career of Choi Bul-am. Although he did not appear directly on screen, his life and choices were vividly brought to life through the memories of his colleagues and juniors.

The broadcast followed Choi's school days and his beginnings on the theater stage. Starting his acting career in the 1950s at the Myeongdong Theater, he established his presence in the theater world, primarily through the National Theater Company. Colleagues who remember those days unanimously mentioned his charisma. Actor Park Geun-hyung recalled, "He was the most handsome and stylish man I had ever seen," while novelist Kim Chun-bok added, "He had an aura reminiscent of James Dean."

However, the biggest turning point in Choi's acting career came unexpectedly. Having vowed to dedicate his life to theater, he was instantly captivated upon seeing actress Kim Min-ja on TV. This encounter led to a complete change in his career path. His decision to appear in TV dramas, which he had consistently declined, was also driven by Kim Min-ja.

Presenter Park Sang-won explained, "He decided to appear on TV to meet Kim Min-ja, who was a popular actress at the time." The actor, who had resolved to devote himself to the theater, changed his direction for love. Eventually, after four years of dating, the two married, marking another new beginning in Choi's life.

Transitioning to TV, he quickly gained widespread recognition. Notably, 'Chief Inspector,' Korea's first investigative drama, was the work that made his name known nationwide. The show, which aired for 18 years and reached a peak viewership rating of 70%, solidified Choi's status as a national actor. He expressed a special connection to the show, stating, "Through this work, I came to understand various aspects of life."

Yet, his acting journey was not without challenges. He had to take on elderly roles from a relatively young age. Actor Baek Il-seob noted, "He aged while still young. He rarely acted with his real face," and the director of 'Country Diary' recalled, "He played elderly roles from the age of 26." Indeed, he naturally portrayed roles far beyond his years, including father figures to his peers, establishing a unique niche.

Despite this, Choi's attitude towards acting remained unchanged. He never left the set during breaks and fully immersed himself in his roles. Junior actor Jung Kyung-ho expressed admiration, saying, "He was like someone who lived on set," and Chae Shi-ra remarked, "He had his own rhythm and presence."

Even as time passed, his challenges did not cease. In 1997, he showcased another transformation by playing a free-spirited character in 'You and I,' breaking away from his established mature image. This resonated deeply with viewers during the IMF crisis.

Meanwhile, Choi stepped down from 'Korean Table,' which he had led for 14 years, last year, sparking rumors about his health. Choi's representatives clarified, "He had back surgery last year due to a herniated disc and has been undergoing rehabilitation. His health is fine."

Eun-jung Kim, TenAsia Reporter eun@tenasia.co.kr