Youn Yuh-jung Reflects on Her Six-Decade Career at Singapore International Film Festival

During an In Conversation event at the Singapore International Film Festival, Oscar-winning Korean actor Youn Yuh-jung shared insights into her remarkable six-decade career. The 78-year-old actress, who received the festival’s Screen Icon Award, discussed her accidental entry into acting, which began after a failed university entrance exam in the 1960s. Youn took a part-time job at a television station, leading to an unexpected audition. “I didn’t plan to be an actress,” she stated, emphasizing her lack of formal training in an industry that often prioritizes theatrical backgrounds.

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Youn's breakthrough came with the 1971 film “Woman of Fire,” directed by Kim Ki-young. This role, where she portrayed a femme fatale, diverged from the conventional beauty standards of 1970s Korean cinema. Despite winning accolades such as Best Actress at the Blue Dragon Awards, she faced criticism early in her career, including a harsh remark about her voice. “When you hear about yourself judging by somebody else, it’s not pleasant feeling,” she reflected.

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Youn credited Kim Ki-young as a pivotal influence in her career, recalling their unique working relationship. He advised her on the importance of choosing roles carefully, suggesting that supporting roles could be safer and more rewarding than leading ones. This guidance shaped her approach to acting throughout her career.

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Her path to the acclaimed film “Minari” was similarly unconventional. Director Lee Isaac Chung sent her the script through a friend, but Youn initially struggled with the English text. After learning that the story was based on Chung's real-life experiences, she agreed to participate, emphasizing the authenticity of the narrative. Despite facing logistical challenges, including negotiating her travel arrangements, Youn prioritized the film's quality, even hiring her own translator.

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Following her success in “Minari,” which earned her numerous awards including an Oscar, Youn expressed a grounded perspective on fame. “When you become famous, people lift you up with no reasons, and then they tear you down with no reasons,” she noted. At this stage in her career, Youn has adopted a selective approach, focusing on projects that resonate with her personal interests and values. “The true luxury is just do what I like to do,” she explained.

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Youn also reflected on the evolution of the Korean entertainment industry, noting significant changes since her early days. While she acknowledged the industry's shift towards a more commercial model, she expressed concern over the limited opportunities for senior actors, attributing this to production costs and changing market dynamics.

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Despite her success, Youn remains cautious about offering advice to younger actors, stating, “Usually when you’re young, we don’t listen to elderly persons.” She also dismissed the idea of writing a memoir, preferring to keep her private life separate from her public persona.

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• “I didn’t plan to be actress,” — Youn Yuh-jung

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• “When you hear about yourself judging by somebody else, it’s not pleasant feeling,” — Youn Yuh-jung

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• “The true luxury is just do what I like to do,” — Youn Yuh-jung

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• “If I get paid this much for this time and if I get paid little bit more for next time.” — Youn Yuh-jung

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Youn Yuh-jung's journey from an accidental actress to an internationally recognized star illustrates her resilience and dedication to her craft, marking her as a significant figure in both Korean and global cinema.

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