Not all iconic characters are superheroes or villains. Some are just secondary or simple roles but they get to achieve the iconic status or be one of the recognizable fictional characters of all time.
It is worth noting that Han Ji-pyeong in Start-Up (2020) and Hong Dusik in Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha (2021) are two compelling drama characters portrayed by one brilliant actor, Kim Seonho. And come ten or twenty years’ time, these names will remain relevant and iconic.
Kim Seonho as Han Ji-pyeong
Han Ji-pyeong, also known as “Good Boy” is a secondary role in Start-Up (2020) but it surged in popularity and interest. He is a genius investor who mentors young entrepreneurs to build their dreams. Although the character is sharp with his words towards mentees, Kim Seonho’s performance as Han Ji-pyeong or Mr. Han was so captivating that it independently elevated the drama’s story. He definitely stole the show.
In fact, it is hard to let go or not remember “Good Boy” for this likeable character created an emotive impact to viewers, young and old alike. Whereas, the intelligent Mr. Han inspired young professionals as well as business owners to set realistic goals and handle them objectively. In fact, his principles in investments became a standard to many company teams.
Kim Seonho was nominated for Best Supporting Actor and won the Most Popular Actor at Baeksang Arts Awards in 2021 for his iconic role as Han Ji-pyeong in Start-Up (2020). In the same performance, he won the “Emotive Award” at Asia Artist Award in 2020 and “Character of the Year” at Seoul International Drama Awards in 2021.
Kim Seonho as Hong Dusik
Hong Dusik, also known as Chief Hong or Hong Banjang in Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha (2021) is a simple character but extraordinarily memorable in personality and appearance. He is a jolly and reliable handyman who assists the villagers in Gongjin, kind but too nosy. He is warmhearted yet one who lived a life of undisclosed feelings of trauma, rooted from high stress producing situations.
Kim Seonho simply created this new influential and relatable character that represents people who appear to have it altogether but sometimes hide a lonely battle within. Chief Hong is distinctively iconic enough to be unforgettable for his vivacious presence and impact on an emotive level.
Kim Seonho was named by Gallup Korea as “TV Actor of the Year” for his iconic role as Hong Dusik in Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha (2021).
Kim Seonho as a brilliant actor
If you have seen all of Kim Seonho’s dramas, you will instantly recognize the distinction of elements from manner of speaking, walking, mannerism, as well as the costumes, hair style, and attitude. You will never see Kim Seonho in Han Ji-pyeong nor Han Ji-pyeong in Hong Dusik nor Hong Dusik in Kim Seonho.
This brilliant actor manages his drama characters to stick in the viewers’ mind by his method and immersive acting. He remarkably breathes and lives his role, and elevates the simple characters with his talent and charm.
In 2021, we asked his fans to differentiate Kim Seonho’s performance as Han Ji-pyeong and Hong Dusik. They gave a detailed and excellent description:
What’s next for Kim Seonho? He is most anticipated to appear for the first time on the big screen through Sad Tropics (2022), an action noir film by Director Park Hoon-jung.
In the movie, he will play a nobleman, which is a dark and mysterious character whose life gets entangled with an aspiring Filipino-Korean boxer. Filming has finished and the movie is expected to be released in the second half of the year.
Photos: tvN Drama, Start-Up, SALT
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