Actor Cha In-pyo (59) has clarified the rumors surrounding him about being from a 'privileged family.'
On the 2nd, Cha In-pyo appeared on the YouTube channel 'Wiraqle' and noted that the image of him as being privileged is "often distorted and exaggerated."
He said, "My father ran a small business," adding, "Then, my father divorced my mother and left home. From that time on, my three brothers lived with our mother." He continued, "Although my father provided us with allowance and supported our education, we couldn't help but be under pressure economically and socially," and revealed the reason for heading to the U.S. by saying, "My mother suggested starting anew in America to escape from there. That's how we went."
He also shared the difficulties he faced during his time in the U.S. He said, "I had to work part-time and take responsibility for living expenses," while acknowledging, "Since I couldn't speak English, I studied at a community college and worked at night." He added, "I earned good grades there and transferred to a state university, graduating with a major in economics."
After that, Cha In-pyo returned to Korea without any plans. He stated, "After graduating from university, I worked as a sales representative in New York for a year, but it didn't suit me at all."
He added, "At that time, I personally faced hardships, so I left my job both voluntarily and involuntarily. I returned to Korea without any plans and lived as an unemployed person before becoming an actor. You never know what life has in store for you."
Cha In-pyo rose to stardom through the drama 'Love in Your Arms' and married actress Shin Ae-ra in 1995, with whom he has one son and two daughters. In addition to his acting career, he has also published a fantasy novel titled 'Mermaid Hunt,' an essay titled 'If We Look at the Same Star Someday,' and a short story collection titled 'Their Day,' showcasing his work as a writer.