'Seonnyeodeul' Choi Soo-jong Reveals Gungye's Death in Taejo Wang Geon Was "Romanticized"

Photo by MBC 'Those Who Cross the Line'

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Jeong-ho] Actor Choi Soo-jong revealed the reason for glamorizing the death of Gung Ye in 'Taejo Wang Geon.'

On the afternoon of the 27th, MBC's 'Those Who Cross the Line - Returns' (hereafter 'Seonnyeodeul') aired an episode titled 'The Art of Fighting,' learning from Taejo Wang Geon of Goryeo, who unified the Later Three Kingdoms. On this day, the 'King of Historical Dramas,' actor Choi Soo-jong, appeared as a guest.

Choi Soo-jong gained great popularity through 'Taejo Wang Geon,' which aired in the 2000s. Especially, the rivalry between Wang Geon and Gung Ye left many memorable scenes.

Regarding this, Seol Min-seok talked about Gung Ye's famous line, "Who made that coughing sound?" and his ability to read people's minds called the 'interest method,' sparking curiosity. Sitting beside him, Choi Soo-jong explained, "Since he has honor and power, he keeps doubting because he fears losing them."

Then, Jeon Hyun-moo and Yoo Byung-jae reenacted the famous scene where Wang Geon almost died because of Gung Ye's interest method. Their absurd 'bad acting' brought laughter. In response, Choi Soo-jong attracted attention by giving them acting training.

Additionally, Seol Min-seok explained, "As Gung Ye's suspicion and madness worsened day by day, Shin Sung-gyeom asked Wang Geon to become the new king." Wang Geon initially refused, but Shin Sung-gyeom said, "Opportunities do not come twice, and even if heaven gives it, if you do not accept it, you will suffer disaster." Eventually, Wang Geon accepted, and a revolution with absolute support from the people began.

Moreover, Choi Soo-jong recalled, "Historically, Gung Ye fled but was hit by a stone and met a miserable death. However, in the drama, Gung Ye's death was glamorized in a cool way." Yoo Byung-jae commented, "That was because Gung Ye was extremely popular at the time," and Choi Soo-jong added, "He was the best."

Meanwhile, 'Those Who Cross the Line' airs every Sunday at 9:10 PM.