Veteran actor Im Joo Hwan has recently made headlines after being seen working at a Coupang logistics center, drawing attention to the struggles faced by actors in Korea’s entertainment industry.
On February 27, Basecamp Company, Im Joo Hwan’s agency, confirmed to OSEN that he has experience working at a Coupang logistics center in the past, addressing viral online posts about the actor.
Fans were surprised after someone shared that they saw him there and even received his autograph.
Im Joo Hwan debuted as a model in 2003 and is now celebrating 23 years in the entertainment industry, with leading roles in numerous films and dramas. For many, the news that he worked part time outside of acting was shocking.
The situation highlights a broader problem in the Korean entertainment industry. While there are many talented actresses, the number of highly skilled male actors is smaller, and even some of them face long periods without work.
At the same time, some less experienced actors continue to secure projects and earn money, showing a stark contrast in opportunities.
According to officials, Im Joo Hwan worked at the logistics center several times during breaks between projects.
He is currently preparing for his next acting project, with his most recent performance being the play The Pride, which closed in Daehangno in June last year.
Film production has dropped significantly due to fewer theatrical releases, and broadcasting stations have reduced drama time slots because of declining advertising revenue.
Many projects have moved to OTT platforms, but even there, a few global companies like Netflix dominate, focusing on large-budget productions. This makes it difficult for many actors and production staff to find consistent work.
Despite these challenges, fans and netizens are praising Im Joo Hwan for his humility and work ethic. Comments online included, “I did not know it was this serious,” “If the industry is struggling, it is natural,” and “Instead of just waiting for a project, he actually looks even cooler.”
Im Joo Hwan’s recent part time work not only highlights his dedication but also sheds light on the ongoing difficulties in Korea’s film and drama industry, where even seasoned actors face uncertainty and instability.
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