An interview with Kim Seon Ho on the YouTube channel ‘by PDC’ from back in February is making the rounds again, shedding light on his early acting days and the financial struggles he faced.
In a video uploaded on February 29th this year, Kim Seon Ho addressed being called a “role model for ‘open-run’ actors.” He explained, “‘Open-run’ refers to theater productions that continue indefinitely without a set closing date, like Rooftop Room Cat and Boeing Boeing. Many actors had already deeply analyzed characters in such projects, so it was all about following those interpretations, which made finding my own take a challenge.”
He also revealed the financial realities of being an “open-run” actor, sharing, “The pay is a bit lower. Back when I was doing the play Sherlock, I only made 18,000 won ($13) per show.”
Despite the financial constraints, Kim Seon Ho recalled the experience fondly, “After paying for car expenses, food, and phone bills, there wasn’t much left to live on. But I lived with my parents then and felt good about chasing my dream. Maybe it was a bit naive, but back then, it was more about the joy than the money. It still is, even now.”
The interviewer then asked if his parents disapproved of his career choice. Kim Seon Ho responded, “No, they were actually really supportive. When I told them I wanted to act in high school, they simply said, ‘Go for it.’ They grew up in a difficult time and didn’t have the luxury of chasing dreams. Survival was their main focus.”
He continued, “Even later on, they never pressured me. They were just thrilled to see me perform.” The interviewer then asked if his parents still attend his shows. Kim Seon Ho smiled, “Absolutely. They recently came to see The Pursuit of Happiness, and they were like excited teenagers! So pure and happy.”
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