At the Singapore International Film Festival, Oscar-winning actress Youn Yuh-jung offered a rare glimpse into her six-decade-long career in a captivating “In Conversation” event. Known for her work in “Minari,” the acclaimed actress discussed her unexpected journey into acting, her impactful relationship with director Kim Ki-young, and the formidable challenges that paved her path to international acclaim.
An Unlikely Start in Acting
Youn Yuh-jung’s journey into the world of acting was far from typical. The 78-year-old actress, who recently received the festival’s Screen Icon Award, recounted her accidental entry into the entertainment industry. A failed university entrance exam in the 1960s led her to a part-time job at a television station, where she unexpectedly found her calling.
“I didn’t plan to be an actress,” Youn admitted. Asked to audition, despite initial hesitation, she found herself accepted as a talent at the station, setting the stage for a remarkable career.
Pioneering Roles and Critical Acclaim
Youn’s breakout role came in the film “Woman of Fire,” directed by Kim Ki-young. Unlike the conventional melodramatic roles of the era, her portrayal of a country girl turned femme fatale shattered norms of beauty and storytelling in Korean cinema.
“Back in my time, in Korean standard, if you want to be actress, you got to be the most beautiful person,” Youn noted. However, her unique style and talent won her prestigious awards, even as she faced criticism for being different from the typical actress of her day.
A Guardian Influence
Her collaboration with Kim Ki-young was pivotal, with the director mentoring her on selecting roles wisely. “The main role is not important… Supporting roles are safer and you still get paid,” he advised, a lesson Youn carried forward in her career choices.
Challenges and Triumphs with “Minari”
The path to “Minari” was equally unconventional. After struggling with the script in English, Youn agreed to join the project recognizing the authenticity of the story. She faced challenges, such as negotiating travel arrangements herself, but her commitment paid off, leading to strong collaborations and friendships.
“I sacrificed my time and my money,” she explained, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in storytelling.
A Life of Selective Choices
Now enjoying what she terms a “luxury” approach, Youn Yuh-jung chooses projects that resonate with her, reflecting on decades of hard work she undertook to support her family. “The true luxury is just do what I like to do,” she shared, grateful for the freedom to pick directors and scripts that align with her vision.
Although the Korean entertainment industry has evolved greatly, Youn acknowledges the limitations for senior actors due to production constraints but accepts these realities as part of the industry’s shifts.
Her Legacy and Advice
When asked about offering advice to young actors, Youn Yuh-jung humbly refrained, noting, “I’m not the Pope, I don’t have any message.” Her story, however, stands as an inspiration in itself—an emblem of perseverance, adaptability, and authenticity.
On plans for a memoir, Youn firmly stated her preference to keep her personal experiences private, leaving the world to celebrate her legacy through her work and the stories she passionately brings to life on screen.
