[Exclusive]Jo Yeon-ji: "I want to be an actor who shows her talents in various fields, like Jo Jung-suk and IU" [Hanbok Interview ②]

*This content was translated by AI.

Continuing from Interview ①.

Looking forward to spending time with her family during this year's Chuseok holiday, Jo Yeon-ji also opened up about her journey as an actor. Having recently signed an exclusive contract with her agency and stepping onto a new starting line, she honestly shared everything from the moment she first dreamed of becoming an actor to her feelings about sharing meals with senior actors.

On the 18th of last month, Jo Yeon-ji signed an exclusive contract with Ikel Entertainment, which represents actors Ji Jin-hee and Baek Ji-won. She said, "It's hard to believe that I'm now in the same circle as the seniors I used to watch on TV, admire, and respect. It makes me feel so secure. I want to be a junior who doesn't cause trouble. I want to be a junior whom I can stand beside with pride."

So what was the reason she dreamed of becoming an actor? Jo Yeon-ji said, "I had many dreams since I was young. My dreams would change every morning." She added, "My older sister, who is two years my senior, was very talented. Watching her, I thought I wanted to become a shining idol. Of course, it was just a thought; I never auditioned or anything like that," she laughed.

She continued, "I became interested in acting schools by following my sister as she prepared for high school of the arts. I thought it would be fun because if you want to become a celebrated entertainer, being an actor allows you to experience various professions."

Her parents also actively supported her dreams. Jo Yeon-ji said, "My parents have been very supportive. For some of my works that are light and cute, they even send links to friends and relatives." She added with a smile, "However, if there are any provocative parts in the work, my father dislikes them."

Especially regarding her profession as an actor, she said, "My satisfaction level is 100%. I feel regretful whenever each episode ends." She continued, "It seems this job suits me well because it involves direct interaction and collaboration. I also enjoy expressing emotions rather than keeping them inside. Being able to express my thoughts and feelings and have others understand them well makes being an actor truly satisfying."

At the same time, she said, "I always want to do well in one go and don't want to cause trouble for those around me, so I feel a constant pressure to perform at my best."

There were also various genres and characters she wanted to challenge as an actor. Jo Yeon-ji said, "I'd like to try musical films or historical dramas. I've always liked hanbok, so I want to challenge myself in historical dramas that can highlight Eastern charm." She added, "I'm also interested in playing professional roles such as doctors, detectives, and lawyers. The process of studying new professions and discovering unknown fields is fun."

In fact, when she challenged herself with sign language acting in "My Unspoken Bride," she reflected, "It was so happy just to be able to learn and act using sign language."

She also expressed her wish to become an actor who showcases her talents across various fields. She cited Jo Jung-suk and IU as her role models. Jo Yeon-ji said, "When I look at Senior Jo Jung-suk, he's someone who has made a mark not only in the media but also on stage. Seeing that, I thought I want to become an actor who can freely show my talents in various fields."

In fact, since Jo Yeon-ji majored in musicals, she has special interest and confidence in music and dance. She said, "I majored in musicals at university and also enjoy dancing. As a hobby and specialty, I even imitate idol choreography directly. If I prepare and show it to everyone, they'll be surprised," she laughed. Like this, her goal is not only to demonstrate her acting abilities but also to show her potential in various fields.

Another person she admires is IU. Jo Yeon-ji said, "I feel sincerity in everything Senior IU does. I can sense that sincerity from her as well." She added, "I am also a person who is confident in at least one thing: sincerity. Like Senior IU, I want to become an actor who can touch someone's heart and fully convey my own sincerity."

To be continued in Interview ③.

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*This content was translated by AI.