Ten Asia reporters looked back on the drama industry in 2023 and selected rising stars of the year
Lee Jung-ha
Lee Jung-ha gained recognition after showcasing perfect acting in “Run On” and “Nevertheless”. In particular, he impressed viewers with his appearance as Kim Woo-sik, a promising track and field player who never gives up on his dream. In “Nevertheless”, he portrayed the annoying character Kim Eun-han who goes back and forth between Na-bi (Han So-hee) and his ex-girlfriend.
In 2023, Lee Jung-ha played a leading role in Disney+’s original series “Moving”. Leading the first part of the 20-episode drama, he captivated viewers with his performance as high school senior Bong-seok, who has to wear sandbags on his ankle to prevent himself from flying because he cannot control his superpower.
To play this character, Lee Jung-ha reportedly gained 30 kilograms to express Bong Seok’s innocent personality through his chubby appearance. However, the actor surprised all viewers as he lost all the weight gains right after the drama ended.
Ahn Eun-jin
Considered one of the most anticipated dramas in the second half of 2023, MBC’s “My Dearest” gradually received attention through word of mouth and became a hit work thanks to the excellent performances of Nam Goong-min and Ahn Eun-jin. Acting alongside Daesang-winner Nam Goong-min, Ahn Eun-jin suffered controversies over miscast at the beginning of the broadcast.
Despite criticism, Ahn Eun-jin confidently showed her delicate acting skills and growth. The actress is now proudly named as a protagonist of “My Dearest” syndrome. She has proved her potential as a trustworthy actress by turning viewers’ concerns into faith.
Roh Yoon-seo
It’s been only 1 year and 8 months since her debut but Roh Yoon-seo has mostly played leading roles. She debuted in the drama “Our Blues” last year and starred in several popular works, such as “20th Century Girl” and “Crash Course in Romance”.
In particular, she acted as Jeon Do-yeon’s niece Nam Hae-yi “Crash Course in Romance” and earned praises for her amazing portrayal of a character with a secret of birth and detailed expressions of a high school girl through emotional lines.
Becoming a rising star, Roh Yoon-seo plans to continue working hard in 2024. She will appear in the Korean remake of the Taiwanese movie “Hear Me”. Expectations are high for her new transformation in this new project.
Source: Daum
