It's not easy to start a career in acting, let alone become an award-winning performer in film and television. However, anything is possible so long as you put your mind and spirit into it. A case in point is the numerous Korean drama stars who have made a name for themselves, not just in the domestic market but the global entertainment sector. Any budding talent can learn a thing or two from the likes of Song Kang-ho and Gong Yoo.
Learning how these stars cultivated global recognition is a good way to start your path to stardom. Take these pieces of career advice in mind as you hone your skills and build your acting credentials.
1. Master emotional expressions.
One thing that makes Korean actors and actresses so effective on-screen is their rigid training in using facial expressions. These skills are crucial in drawing out the emotional impact of storylines, allowing audiences to empathize with the pain, joy, and catharsis a character feels.
You can observe this in Shin Hye-sun's performance in My Golden Life and Park Bo-young in DAYS. Some may think that emotional expressions are easy to pull off, but, in reality, it takes rigorous practice to make such emotions powerful and believable. Eventually, you will be able to extend your range and become more versatile as you're given more challenging roles.
2. Commit to continuous learning.
Korean culture emphasizes continuous learning. Even if you think you are a master of stagecraft, it still matters to undergo workshops and training programs sponsored by talent agencies. YG Entertainment runs a training center that requires new talents to undergo two to four years of intensive training, that is, if they can survive the agency's rigorous audition and selection processes.
It doesn't stop there, as you will need to broaden your horizons beyond acting. That would mean learning how to dance, sing, and perform on stage. Not only that, but you also need to brush up on other factors that will support your acting career, from public relations down to financial management.
3. Seek out mentorship.
What most people overlook are the opportunities to be mentored by a veteran actor who has gone through numerous ups and downs throughout their career. Not only will they provide you with advice on how to develop your skills, but they can also guide you through the industry itself. If you can't find one, consider looking up actor podcasts or sign up for a local acting school where you can build friendships with senior talents.
4. Build a strong work ethic.
As everything else in Korean society goes, you will have to give your all to become not just a common actor but one who defines excellence. KDrama actors often have to contend with busy schedules and little free time as they need to read through scripts and attend shoots for commercials.
Their level of dedication is impressive at best, and you should follow the kind of discipline they train in. This doesn't necessarily mean sacrificing your personal life to reach the levels of fame your favorite stars enjoy. To bring out your best, you will have to know how to slow down and enjoy the fruits of your talent.
Endnote
The road to stardom is paved with challenges, but today's hottest KDrama stars can teach us how to navigate the industry as professionals.
