Actors live and die by their image. It is connected to every source of their livelihood. So they do their best to manage their image. Especially in an environment like Korea where public opinion bubbles up and settles so easily, stress increases. Whether the controversies and rumors surrounding them are true or false, once hooked, the actor is playing a losing game.
Hwang Jung-min, considered one of the top method actors of Chungmuro, has recently been embroiled in a scandal. Claims between Hwang Jung-min's side and the opposing party in the dispute have conflicted, and a battle over the truth is expected to continue for the time being. As mentioned earlier, this means Hwang Jung-min is already mired in mud and has begun a fight he cannot win even if he does. Hwang Jung-min has walked a straight, single-minded path as an actor and had a good image, so the damage from this controversy will surely hurt more.
The timing is also the worst. The latest anticipated film by director Na Hong-jin, the "genius," Hope, opened and was topping the box office when the incident surfaced. Before a film's release, actors have many outside schedules such as variety shows to promote the movie. While doing every kind of act to draw attention, if a sharp rebuke lands, even people who had no interest become curious, asking, "What is this?" That is exactly Hwang Jung-min's current situation.
Hwang Jung-min once said in an interview with a reporter, "An actor's work doesn't end when filming ends. If you received a high appearance fee, you should properly participate in promotion before and after release." His steadfast participation even in the Hope stage greeting schedule shows a fighting spirit typical of Hwang Jung-min.
Debate is fine. Since a claim of harm has been made, it is natural to determine the truth. But no matter which way the law rules, Hwang Jung-min will be left battered. What, then, is "Hope" for the actor Hwang Jung-min who is sinking in the mire? Acting is truly a difficult profession.
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