tvN STORY 'Handsome Trott' discovered fresh faces. Among familiar faces like Choo Sung Hoon, Jang Hyuk, and In Gyo Jin, he was the most unfamiliar yet captured the hearts of viewers with heartfelt songs. He is Han Jung Wan, the winner of the Korea's top beauty pageant.
'Handsome Trott,' which concluded on the 18th, is a trot survival program featuring 12 male stars representing the entertainment industry. Han Jung Wan and fellow contestants Choo Sung Hoon, Jang Hyuk, Choi Dae Cheol, In Gyo Jin, Ji Seung Hyun, Jung Gyeo Un, Tae Hang Ho, Hyun Woo, Kim Dong Ho, Lee Tae Ri, and Kim Jun Ho showcased fierce trot competition.
Han Jung Wan belonged to Jang Min Ho's team and performed 'Bench' and 'I Only Know Love.' Unfortunately, he was eliminated in the second round, but he proudly showcased his presence in the trot variety show he debuted on. He told OSEN, "I really wanted to hear compliments about having talent in various areas."
Here is a question-and-answer session with Han Jung Wan.
- Thoughts on joining 'Handsome Trott' and completing it safely
I have liked music since my school days and was active in the band club. I loved dancing and performing on stage during school festivals, but I had never sung on stage, so I always had a longing for it. When I received the offer to appear on 'Handsome Trott,' I felt the pressure of 'Can I do well?' but at the same time, I thought it would be fun and a chance to fulfill a wish I've had for a long time, so I decided to take on the challenge. I'm glad to have safely completed it until the end and it's truly become a memorable experience.
- What was your goal, and do you have any regrets about being eliminated?
My goal was obviously to aim for the final T4 (laughs). I thought if I made it to the last stage and showed everything, I wouldn't have any regrets even if I got eliminated. However, being announced as the first eliminated contestant and not being able to show more left me with great regrets.
- What charm do you want to show, and what compliments do you want to hear?
Through this broadcast, I wanted to show my original personality, which is pure and bright. Also, since it was the first time I properly learned singing, I wanted to show the entire process of growing while learning. Personally, I wanted to show my diligent efforts and hear compliments that I have talent in various areas.
- If you could express gratitude to your team leader Jang Min Ho, what would you say?
I am really grateful for the heartfelt advice the Head of Team provided about trot and for looking after me even outside of the broadcasts. Since I was a rookie and the youngest, the care I received really supported me. I think being with the Head of Team helped me engage more authentically in the program. For me, the top trot singer is now Head of Team Jang Min Ho.
- What performance by another contestant did you admire as a competitor?
Everyone else had truly amazing skills, so honestly, I was quite nervous. All the performances were impressive, but particularly, Choi Dae Cheol's stage made me applaud as a competitor. Standing on the same stage motivated me to give my best to avoid being ashamed in front of each other. In fact, I regret not being able to get closer with the contestants I performed with since I was eliminated early. If there's a next opportunity, I hope we can meet again not through singing, but through acting.
- What stage were you most satisfied with, and what is your strength?
I was satisfied with my performance on the second-round stage, 'Bench,' but there is still a lingering disappointment. I sang well compared to usual, but I made mistakes in the dance part. It seems this aspect did not earn the judges' votes in terms of completeness. And if I were to mention my strength, it's 'confidence.' Even though I made mistakes on stage, I was able to showcase my talent until the last thanks to a composed mindset and the confidence to carry on with the atmosphere.
- What feedback from viewers or fans has stuck with you?
I have yet to be recognized on the street. The first person who recognized me after the broadcast was a restaurant owner who was a viewer of 'Handsome Trott.' They said, 'You sing well, and you look even better in person,' which left a lasting impression on me. It made me determined to engage in more active endeavors moving forward.
- What do you think is the charm of trot?
I believe the charm of trot lies in its authenticity. Reflecting on the lyrics of songs I've heard, I found there was a depth that was different. Senior Jang Hyuk mentioned during the broadcast that trot sublimates sorrow into art, and I deeply resonated with that statement.
- What points would you like to compliment yourself on after your first trot variety show challenge?
It was nerve-wracking and a huge burden to showcase a song I had never sung before in front of many cameras and senior professionals. Nevertheless, I want to give myself a little compliment for doing my best and pulling it off. Thanks to 'Handsome Trott,' I gained 'confidence' that I can do it, the 'joy' of learning about the unknown, and the 'sense of responsibility' to put my heart into what has been entrusted to me.
- A word to the viewers
Hello, viewers. This is actor Han Jung Wan. As 'Handsome Trott' comes to an end, I'm having this interview. While recalling the memories of filming and practicing for the program during the interview, I genuinely felt happy and joyful when I think back on it. I sincerely thank you for being with me on the 'Handsome Trott' stage, which is a good memory for me and allowed me to showcase my efforts.
- What does the title of being a winner of Korea's top beauty pageant mean to you?
I haven't had much experience being number one in my life (laughs). After experiencing being number one for the first time, it felt like all the hardships I faced during that process were compensated. I don't know when that day will come again, but dreaming of the day I can be number one again, I think I've gained the strength to endure and move forward even when the days are tough.
- How do you want to be remembered as an actor?
I will do my best so that many people can see actor Han Jung Wan more in dramas and movies. I would be grateful if you continued to care for me. I believe that being remembered by viewers means they are spending their time and opportunity costs to watch the works I am in. Therefore, I want to become an 'actor who makes their time worthwhile.'
[Photo] Provided
[OSEN]