Kim So-yeon, who has left a deep impression on viewers with her intense performances in dramas like “Tale of the Nine Tailed 1938” and the “Penthouse” series, has drawn attention to her next project. Kim So-yeon said, “I am so grateful for the love I’ve received for playing strong characters, but I’ve always wanted to challenge myself with different genres and roles. I want to try more subtle acting, explore comedy and even break the established image of myself.“
Her upcoming drama “A Virtuous Business”, directed by Jo Woong and written by Choi Bo-rim, is a story of women who were ahead of their time when it was hard even to say the word “sex”, who somehow managed to bring a healthy dose of energy into the secretive world of couples and thrive on their own. This rare subject matter fulfilled Kim So-yeon’s desire to try something different. “I was drawn to the role of Han Jung-sook in ‘A Virtuous Business’ because I felt like I could show everything through her.“
Initially, Kim So-yeon had her doubts about the unusual topic. She explained, “At first, I thought, ‘Can a drama about selling adult products really work?’ But I became curious and intrigued by what exactly they’d be selling.” After reading the script, she found it meaningful that “A Virtuous Business” tackled a once-taboo subject and stated, “How the topic of ‘sex’ is portrayed is key, and I found it attractive that this drama presents it in a relatable and lighthearted way.“
Playing a character from the 90s also felt like a fresh experience for Kim So-yeon. She said, “It’s a decade I know well, but the adult world that I was too young to understand back then gives it a new, exciting feeling.” Kim So-yeon expressed her excitement, thinking about how different generations—those who were young adults in the 90s, those who were children then, and today’s youth—will all see the drama from different perspectives.
Kim So-yeon’s character, Han Jung-sook, leads a modest and virtuous life until she starts selling adult products, which becomes a turning point in her life. She begins what was once an uncomfortable job, but over time, she finds meaning in her work and eventually achieves her dream. Kim So-yeon related to Jung-sook’s sincerity, saying, “Even though she makes cute mistakes, her genuineness makes her a successful salesperson, and I wanted to cheer for her.“
To bring life to such a compelling character, Kim So-yeon has put great effort into her performance. “I’ve been carefully researching and working to make sure that Jung-sook’s movements and dialogue while selling adult products aren’t exaggerated but still evoke imagination in a way that feels fun and not uncomfortable.” She especially focused on the scene of the first sale, wanting to show Jung-sook’s nervousness while also bringing humor to the moment. Kim So-yeon shared “I was so immersed that I got sick after filming“, showcasing her dedication.
As the drama also highlights the friendship between the four “Bangpan Sisters”, Kim So-yeon shared her special bond with co-stars Kim Sung-ryung, Kim Sun-young and Lee Se-hee. She said “When we meet on set, we chat non-stop, and I even look forward to the days we shoot together“, noting how naturally their chemistry comes across. She confidently added, “It’s so real that sometimes it’s hard to tell what’s drama and what’s real life. I think viewers will feel that too.”
Source: Ten Asia
