Embracing Aging

In a world where the passage of time is often met with fear and resistance, renowned actor Gong Yoo is taking a refreshingly different approach. As he ages, he proudly embraces the natural wrinkles that come with it, viewing them as a testament to a life well-lived.

Interview Highlights

During a captivating interview at a cafe in Seoul on December 5, Gong Yoo opened up about his latest project, Netflix's intriguing series "Trunk." The show revolves around an unusual marriage arrangement entwined with a mysterious floating trunk, which serves as the catalyst for a secretive matchmaking service.

The Role of Han Jeong-won

In "Trunk," Gong takes on the role of Han Jeong-won, a man ensnared in a contractual marriage that leads to profound loneliness. His character is navigating the complexities of love after being bound to his former wife, Lee Seo-yeon, portrayed by Jeong Yoon-ha.

Exploring Love's Depths

Gong expressed that he was attracted to the series due to its deeper exploration of love, stating, "I believe even in romantic relationships, there are darker aspects. Many dramas and films portray love in a bright, glorified way, but I wanted to delve into its shadows." This desire to uncover the nuanced feelings surrounding love led him to question the pain that his character experiences.

Forms of Love

Reflecting on the nature of love itself, Gong categorized it into two forms: “existential love” and “possessive love.” He argued that possessive love can be damaging, saying, “Under the name of love, it can harm both oneself and those around you.” He believes that true love is about finding strength in the other's presence and navigating complex emotions with grace.

Co-starring with Seo Hyun-jin

Co-starring with Gong is the talented actress Seo Hyun-jin, who plays No In-ji, a character burdened by her matchmaking career. Gong praised her work ethic, stating, "I couldn’t imagine anyone else as No In-ji. Watching her perform on set was a real joy.” He emphasized that "Trunk" is not merely a dual-protagonist narrative; rather, it primarily follows No In-ji's emotional journey.

Shifting Career Priorities

As he navigates his career, Gong has witnessed shifts in his priorities. "In the past, I might have wanted to be the title role, but as time passed, I realized that’s not what matters," he reflected. Now, his focus lies on the story itself. "If I’m not curious about the story, being the title role holds no meaning."

Thoughts on Aging

Beyond his professional reflections, Gong's candid thoughts on aging reveal a man at peace with himself. “I love the wrinkles on my face,” he shares. “They can become part of my mise-en-scene as an actor. I am not averse to aging.” Nevertheless, he did admit to moments of surprise as changes surfaced with age, like the development of double eyelids. "It was unfamiliar at first, but it’s not because I dislike aging," he clarifies.

Conclusion

“Trunk,” released on November 29, invites audiences into a world filled with unconventional love stories and continues to showcase Gong Yoo's exceptional talent. With his layered performances and honest approach to aging, Gong Yoo not only captivates viewers but inspires them to embrace the beauty of life’s transitions.

This captivating piece provides a glimpse into the mind of one of South Korea's most beloved actors, highlighting both his artistic journey and personal philosophy—a reminder that aging can indeed be a charming part of existence.