Song Il-kook candidly revealed the reason for his long absence from television dramas, touching fans with his honest admission: he simply wasn’t chosen.
The beloved actor, widely known as the father of triplets Daehan, Minguk and Manse, recently spoke about his career hiatus during the press conference for the musical “Hague,” held on April 8 at NOL Uniplex in Daehangno, Seoul.
When asked why he hasn’t appeared in dramas for nearly a decade, Song Il Kook gave a simple and humble answer. “Ours is a profession where we have to be chosen… and I just wasn’t chosen,” he admitted.
The statement resonated deeply with fans, many of whom expressed sympathy for the veteran actor, whose last big screen appearances were in the 2016 KBS drama Jang Yeong Sil and the 2015 film Tattoo.
Since then, Song has shifted his focus largely towards stage productions, dedicating himself to musical theater starting in 2022.
Despite the disappointment of fewer film opportunities, Song stressed that performing live gave him satisfaction. “I am happy to be on stage. I am grateful that people continue to seek me out for stage plays and I am doing my best with gratitude,” he said.
She also admitted that musical theater was initially intimidating due to the vocal demands. “Singing is difficult, so it wasn’t an easy choice. In fact, I’m learning a lot from the younger actors.”
In the musical “The Hague,” Song Il-kook plays Lee Sang Seol, leader of the historic delegation of the secret emissary of The Hague.
The production is based on the mission of the 1907 Hague Peace Convention, when Korean envoys went abroad to protest Japan’s unjust invasion before the annexation of Korea. The musical reimagines the emotional struggles and sacrifices of these historical figures and runs through June 21.
Song Il Kook remains one of the most recognizable Korean actors thanks to his long acting career and enduring audience affection.
In addition to his acting fame, he became a family favorite thanks to the KBS variety show Superman Returns, where he appeared with his three children from 2014 to 2016.
His warm parenting style, especially the scenes where he takes care of Daehan, Minguk and Manse alone, including iconic moments riding a bike with all three boys, have made him one of Korea’s most beloved celebrity fathers.
After his heartfelt confession, many fans are now hoping that Song Il Kook will soon return to work in television and film projects.
Although the actor has found happiness on stage, his emotional honesty has reignited calls for producers to once again cast him in major roles on the big screen where many believe his talent still belongs.
Sources: Daum | Television reportage
