Veteran actor Choi Min Sik has shared his candid thoughts on celebrity dating culture, criticizing the tendency to treat romantic relationships as scandals and encouraging younger actors to date freely. The actor made the remarks during an appearance on the popular YouTube variety show Pinggyego alongside actor Choi Hyun Wook, his co-star in the upcoming Netflix series Notes from the Last Row.

In the June 27 episode titled “Fan Meeting Is Just an Excuse,” Choi Min Sik praised Choi Hyun Wook’s acting skills but also offered heartfelt advice about building a long-lasting career. “As a senior, the one thing I want to tell Hyun Wook is to be careful when people say things like, ‘You’re the best,’ or ‘You’re doing great.'”

He continued: “You shouldn’t become satisfied just because people praise you. You have to be even more critical of yourself. That’s how you build a long career, develop your own philosophy, and truly come to love this profession. The moment you start measuring yourself by other people’s reactions, there’s no end to it.”

Choi Min Sik added that actors should constantly reflect on why they chose the profession and what they hope to learn from each project. “You need to ask yourself why you’re doing this, what you can learn from it, and how it will change your life. That’s how you continue to grow.”

He expressed hope that Choi Hyun Wook would maintain his current passion and attitude toward acting throughout his career.

The conversation then shifted unexpectedly to romance, with Choi Min Sik saying he also hoped his younger colleague would enjoy dating. “I hope Hyun Wook dates too. As much as he wants.”

The veteran actor questioned why celebrity relationships are so often viewed negatively. “People date when they’re young. But the moment they date, it’s treated like a scandal. Why is everyone so negative about young men and women falling in love?” Growing visibly emotional, he added: “I’m suddenly getting worked up.”

As Choi Min Sik passionately voiced his opinion, host Yoo Jae Suk jokingly tried to lighten the mood. “Hyung, have a drink first.” Yoo Jae Suk also said he understood why the actor felt frustrated after witnessing younger entertainers face intense public scrutiny over their personal lives.

Choi Min Sik concluded with a simple but firm belief: “People need to experience love. As long as they’re not doing anything wrong, what’s the problem?”

His comments have resonated with many viewers, reigniting discussions about the pressures celebrities face when their personal relationships become public.

Sources: 네이트 뉴스