Actor Jang Ha-eun wrapped up Would You Merry Me and shared affectionate closing thoughts along with a Q&A.
Jang Ha-eun played designer Shin Song-hee in the SBS Friday-Saturday drama Would You Merry Me (directed by Song Hyun-wook, Hwang In-hyuk / written by Lee Ha-na), bringing warm energy that drove the story's flow and remained active through the final episode.
Jang Ha-eun, as designer Shin Song-hee, naturally moved between calm delicacy and lively energy, steadily guiding the drama's emotional line. As Yumi's (played by Jung So-min) closest colleague and pillar, she sometimes added softness and other times firmness to the story, perfectly embodying a realistic character and receiving praise from the public.
In particular, rather than showing excessive emotion, she convincingly depicted Shin Song-hee's daily life with realistic acting that blended naturally into everyday moments. The detailed expressions and breathing crafted through careful observation heightened the realism of her professionalism, and by naturally expressing deep friendship and trust toward Yumi, she made the drama's emotional tone even warmer.
With a densely packed performance across the 12 episodes, Jang Ha-eun concluded Would You Merry Me and expressed gratitude as she left the project.
Below is the full Q&A with Jang Ha-eun
Q. How do you feel about finishing Would You Merry Me?
A. Would You Merry Me was the work that filled my summer. I always enjoyed going to set, and I was able to grow by learning a lot from the director and fellow actors. It's already over, so I feel both relieved and wistful.
Q. What did you focus on while preparing the character Shin Song-hee?
A. I wanted Mary Design to feel full even with just the two of us. For the character's realism, I relearned Photoshop to practice hand movements and tried to improve my design sense by looking at numerous posters. I actually had an internship in the design department before, so before filming I visited the university's design building to observe students' work methods and atmosphere. I wanted to create various charms, like a relaxed gaze, concentrated expressions despite that, and a lively look when resting.
Q. Were there any references or materials you consulted because of the occupational traits of being a designer?
A. Mary Design is a company that does various kinds of work, so I referenced the daily lives of real designers a lot. I tried to naturally portray frequently used shortcuts, hand movements, and snap functions. The Pantone color chips and color guides that were always on Song-hee's desk were familiar tools from my internship days, so they felt welcoming. In fact, I don't think I have much of a design sense myself.
Q. In what ways are Shin Song-hee and you similar or different?
A. Song-hee is a more proactive MZ than expected. In the scene where she rushes with Vice Administrator Myeong Sun-dang to collect materials, the senior drives, but Song-hee takes charge of the situation and leads it. She's like a captain. That boldness and transparent energy are similar to me. The director also said my vivacity suited Song-hee well.
Q. How did you interpret your relationship with Yumi (played by Jung So-min)? I'm curious what feelings you wanted to convey beyond being a "reliable support."
A. The company's CEO lives so diligently that she's a character you always want to cheer for. I felt Song-hee was a colleague and friend who stayed by her side even without being told. When the CEO is struggling, Song-hee waits without asking too many questions for that very reason. I wanted to express a relationship that connects without having to explain everything in words.
Q. Any memorable behind-the-scenes moments during filming?
A. There was a scene at the company where Mary and Song-hee were talking, and whenever it was my turn a dog kept barking outside the set. I still remember So-min unnie joking, "Were you a cat in a past life?" That helped ease the tension and made the atmosphere much more comfortable. I want to be born as a pretty cat in my next life.
Q. How was the atmosphere on set and the chemistry with your fellow actors?
A. The director and staff were all warm and passionate people, so I always received good energy. In particular, So-min unnie was busy preparing her own scenes but still paid attention to my details and helped me a lot. Thanks to that consideration, I could play Song-hee more comfortably. Senior Myeong Sun-dang and others were always cheerful, so the set was full of laughter. The director's genuine care for the actors was also a great support.
Q. Are there any genres or characters you want to challenge next?
A. I definitely want to try a courtroom drama. As my image is gradually changing, I hope for an opportunity to naturally use my lower-toned voice. In particular, the role of a lawyer requires calmness and logical strength. I want to portray that charismatic side well.
Q. Please give a final message to the viewers who loved Would You Merry Me.
A. Dear viewers. Thank you sincerely for loving Would You Merry Me and cherishing Song-hee. Have a warm year-end, and I will work hard to greet you with better works in the future.
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