Entertainment

The Grueling K-Drama That Almost Made Kim Hye Soo Retire from Acting!

2025-04-01

Author: Ming

A Shocking Revelation

In a shocking revelation, legendary actress Kim Hye Soo confessed that the intense demands of her latest drama almost pushed her into retirement. During an appearance on her close friend Song Yoon Ah’s popular YouTube show, Kim opened up about her recent experience filming 'Under The Queen’s Umbrella,' admitting that the role took a significant toll on her physically and emotionally.

The Grueling Production Schedule

“I really worked hard. For nine months, all I did was read scripts. It was so hard,” Kim stated, reflecting on the grueling pace of production. Her character, a formidable queen, navigates the treacherous world of the royal court while desperately seeking truth about her son’s death, a narrative that resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike.

Exhausting Reality Behind Success

Despite the show's astounding success—garnering rave reviews and a devoted fanbase—Kim described the exhausting reality behind its production. “The best part of the drama ending is knowing that I don’t have to stay up all night reading the script. I feel like shooting the drama has taken three years off my life. I thought, ‘I am going to die three years earlier,’” she lamented.

Emotional Weight and Isolation

Not just the long nights, but the emotional weight of living up to the high expectations from fans weighed heavily on her. 'To be honest, it was so lonely and difficult. I considered quitting multiple times, telling myself, ‘I can’t do this anymore,’” she explained. She also expressed a sense of isolation, feeling as if no one understood the pressures she faced: 'Given my status, people assume I will always perform well. It’s cruel, but I know it’s natural. Still, I was lonely.'

A Celebrated Career

Kim Hye Soo is one of South Korea's most celebrated actresses, boasting a career that spans nearly four decades. She burst onto the scene in 1986 and won her first major award shortly after, setting the stage for a remarkable journey in the film and television industry.

Looking Forward

As this sensation unfolds, fans can find solace in knowing that Kim has no regrets about the tremendous effort she put into her role. Looking forward, we can only hope she continues to grace our screens despite the challenges. Stay tuned for more updates on this remarkable actress!