Edited by Hwang Hong Sun
Translated by Kim Hoyeun
Park Min Young, who spent her school days in the U.S., dreamed of becoming an actor while watching Korean dramas and films whenever she missed her home. In 2006, she made her debut as an actress with the MBC sitcom Unstoppable High Kick, catching the eyes of viewers as a quirky and daring Kang Yoo Mi.
Since then, Park has steadily built up her career. She took her first lead role with the 2017 drama I Am Sam, and challenged herself to play the role of a woman dressed as a man in the 2010 drama Sungkykwan Scandal, leading the work to a huge success. From City Hunter, Dr. Jin, and A New Leaf, to Remember, she gradually expanded her field by digesting various genres ranging from sitcoms to modern and historical dramas.
Then in 2018, Park was at the zenith of her career with the drama What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim. Based on the web novel of the same name, it depicts the romances between a narcissist vice-chairman and his capable secretary. Park Min Young took on the role of a legendary secretary Kim Mi So, who decides to resign from her job to focus on herself and live her own life, unintentionally shaking the strictly-workplace relationship she has with her boss.
When the news of the drama adaptation of What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim was officially announced, fans both rejoiced and worried. But Park’s flawless visuals as if she literally walked out of the book and improved performances put an end to their worries. This was possible thanks to Park’s extraordinary efforts to diligently read and research the original novel.
She lost weight to perfectly express her character, and paid great attention to the office looks that represent her role. Park also completed the image of Mi Soo, nicknamed “legend of all secretaries,” with accurate pronunciation and rich facial expressions.
With Park Min Young’s passionate performance, What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim became a fire hit, topping the ratings among dramas aired in the same time slot. In particular, Park was responsible for the drama’s laughter and romance despite the burden of starring in her first rom-com drama, drawing positive reviews of “Park Min Young’s rediscovery.”
Currently, Park Min Young is enjoying her rest after finishing When the Weather Is Fine and communicating with fans through YouTube. I look forward to seeing her on another good project soon.
