Actor Ji Seung Hyun recently went viral for an apology video for “cheating” on his wife, which was, in fact, a promotional video for his latest K-Drama, Good partner. Although his newfound fame is, the actor has been active in the industry since 2009, becoming a familiar face among K-Drama fans. But in a recent appearance on a variety show, Ji Seung Hyun revealed that even just five years ago he earned less than a normal employee!
Ji Seung Hyun recently appeared as a special guest on Shin Dong Yesthe program on YouTube, Donor Hyeongand spoke candidly about his professional journey. Despite landing a significant role in a hit movie like WishJi recalled that he later did not have the expected acting opportunities. Things got so bad that making a living through acting seemed less possible, and he and his wife hatched a plan to open their own Korean snack joint.
Although the couple had already been working on recipes and looking for places to start their own business, Ji’s wife stopped the business when he landed a role in Descendants of the sun. The role not only brought him recognition but also more projects, allowing him to continue pursuing acting.
But the success of Descendants of the sun it didn’t really translate into better earnings. Ji Seung Hyun remarked, “Many people think that actors earn a lot of money when they participate in TV shows”, adding that the year Descendants of the sun was released, his total annual earnings from acting were only $3,000.
During this time, the actor said he realized the difference between people’s perception of the entertainment industry and reality. While most people expected him to move to a new house after the success of his K-Drama, he didn’t even earn enough money to support himself throughout the year by acting.
“I’ve been earning as much as an employee for less than five years,” Ji Seung Hyun revealed during the conversation. Five or six years ago, when his earnings were nowhere near enough to survive, he had to work part-time at a cousin’s restaurant.
The actor also recalled that when his son was born, he had to get financial help from his parents and in-laws. But now that her career has finally taken off, she lets her mother-in-law use her credit card. “I’m doing my best to make up for everything,” he confessed.
Although the difficulties have not dampened his passion for acting, Ji Seung Hyun admitted that he would not encourage his children to enter the industry, as its unstable nature. “If you know you’ll make it through hard work, then sure, but hard work is not enough,” he concluded speaking about the sector.
You can watch the full episode of Donor Hyeong Here:
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