Following the news of Kim Sae Ron's passing, veteran actress Park Jung Soo opened up her thoughts during her recent appearance at actor Noh Joo Hyun's YouTube channel.
Kim, who died aged 24 on February 16, was subject to widespread criticism after being arrested for a DUI before her death.
As per Sports Chosun, Park Jung Soo expressed that people carry a "heavy stone" as they navigate life, reflecting her sorrow over Kim's untimely death. She emphasized that one cannot remain in a state of grief forever. "It's like someone being overwhelmed by the waves of life repeatedly until they can no longer hold on," she explained.
Veteran South Korean actress Park Jung Soo, who debuted in 1972, stressed the need for greater accountability from public figures. She brought up Kim's DUI and insinuated that one must pay the price for their actions.
Park said, "A public figure must be cautious in their actions; it impacts not only them but also many people collaborating on a project."
The seasoned actress pointed out the double standards that face celebrities, especially those who are labeled to be pretty.
"You know, someone like her, and especially being as pretty as she is, the public is often less forgiving, no? That was why she had to be careful," she said.
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"Our bodies are not entirely our own. For example: If I am doing a performance, and I collapse, the whole thing messes up right? So, that is something we need to be cautious about always."
However, Park also took issue with the unreasonable standards that the public applies to celebrities.
"People who comment are somewhat brutal on celebrities. It's great, but they could treat them a bit more like common folks — sorta in the middle," she said.
Park also addressed Kim Sae Ron's alleged financial struggles due to her DUI fines, noting that many stars may not have as much money as netizens speculate they do.
She elaborated, "Though some of them want to pay off big debts quickly, the majority don't receive more than KRW 2.00 million (around USD 1,370) to KRW 3.00 million (around USD 2,050) for each 60-minute EP of a show."
