40 Years Since Debut: An Autobiographical Essay
"Even My 'Dark History' Is Part of My Life"
Actor Park Junghun, celebrating his 40th anniversary since debut, has published an autobiographical essay titled "Don't Regret," reflecting on his life and acting career. He also shared his deep affection for his fellow actor Ahn Sungki.
At a press conference held on November 4 at the 1928 Art Center in Jeong-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul, Park said, "In my twenties, I used to say, 'I have no regrets being born a man, only self-reflection.' But now, there are so many things I regret."
He cited his quick temper in his youth, which led to frequent arguments, and the time he could not spend with his family due to his acting career as his greatest regrets in life. "In my twenties, my blood was boiling and I tried to retaliate against anyone who picked a fight with me. Looking back, I feel deeply ashamed," he recalled. "I remember when my child was about four years old and said, 'Dad, please come visit our house again.' Hearing that broke my heart."
"Don't Regret," published on October 29, is an essay that encapsulates Park Junghun's 40 years of experiences and reflections, both as an actor and as a person.
The book includes his journey of growth as a film actor, as well as his "dark history," such as being arrested in 1994 on charges of marijuana use. Park explained, "I felt that only writing about good things would lack authenticity. I accept those mistakes as part of my life. People say that to become resilient, you need both gravel and sand mixed in. I think those mistakes ultimately made me stronger."
He also shared, "While writing, there were times when I wrote until dawn and tears would fall. Looking back on my life, I felt proud of myself for working so hard through difficult times. It felt like giving myself a gift."
Park also gave an update on his longtime colleague Ahn Sungki. "Ahn Sungki's health is very poor. It has been over a year since I last saw him, and we are not in a situation where we can talk on the phone or exchange messages," he said. "I hear updates from his family. I may sound calm, but honestly, I am very sad." The two have worked together on several films, including "Two Cops," "Nowhere to Hide," and "Radio Star."
Park Junghun emphasized, "What I realized while writing this book is that my life is something I am so grateful for, to the point that even bowing a thousand times a day would not be enough. I wanted to leave even my shameful past as part of my story. I wrote it with complete sincerity."
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