As Jang Ki Yong recalls his modeling career, "The Atypical Family" star expressed his happiness seeing fellow models-turned-actors thrive as rising stars.
In an interview with a local media outlet, the South Korean heartthrob dishes on his humble beginnings before starting out as an actor.
With his stunning features and towering height of 6'2, Jang Ki Yong made his debut as a model.
He is among the K-drama actors who started their career in fashion, gracing various runways and photoshoots.
As a self confessed introvert, he mentioned that modeling changed his personality.
From being "really timid and introverted" and someone who "feared talking in front of others," the actor said that his "personality slowly began to change" when he entered modeling.
Speaking of modeling, Jang Ki Yong became part of the YG models in 2012.
Jang Ki Yong Mentions Fellow Models Byeon Woo Seok and Joo Woo Jae
During his interview with the outlet, the actor talks about his experience, saying how he really enjoyed working in the industry.
"Modeling was a lot of fun, and although there were tough parts, they are very good memories for me."
In addition to this, he also responded to Joo Woo Jae's comment about him during his guest appearance in "Yoo Quiz on the Block."
Expressing how delighted he is to see him land amazing projects, Jang Ki Yong said, "I'm grateful that Woojae mentioned me.I even messaged him personally. I'm thankful this serves as a chance to look back on those times. Seeing the photos from the shows and our fun moments together brings me a lot of joy."
The 37-year-old actor made his first K-drama appearance in 2015 for a supporting role in "We Broke Up."
Joo Woo Jae also joined as one of the cast members in "I'm Not a Girl Anymore," "Come and Hug Me," and "Please Don't Date Him," as well as Kang Nam Soon's homeless friend in "Strong Girl Namsoon."
Besides being a model, he is also a radio host, DJ, and owner of the men's clothing brand SSRL.
Other than Joo Woo Jae, Jang Ki Yong also mentioned fellow model Byeon Woo Seok, who is now experiencing massive popularity after landing the lead role in "Lovely Runner."
According to the "Now, We Are Breaking Up" star, "There's a special bond among the colleagues and seniors" that he worked with during his modeling career.
"It genuinely makes me happy to see the people I shared tough times with doing well," he said, referring to Byeon Woo Seok's success.
Jang Ki Yong had just returned to the small screen after completing his military enlistment.
After "The Atypical Family," he is in talks to star in the action thriller webtoon-based K-drama "Pig Pen" with Cha Seung Woo, Kim Dae Myung, and "Hierarchy" star Roh Jeong Eui.
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Written by Geca Flores