Yoo Ji An says she expected casting favoritism claims over 'Agent Kim Reactivated' but feels proud after proving herself through acting

Rookie actress Yoo Ji An openly addressed the early casting controversy surrounding her role in the SBS drama Agent Kim Reactivated.

Yoo Ji An made her acting debut as Joo Hye Ri, an antagonist who creates tension in the story. Because she is represented by Fantagio, the company involved in producing the drama, some viewers initially questioned whether she received special treatment during casting.

The actress said she was aware of the criticism and had expected some negative reactions.

She shared: “I knew that some people viewed it as favoritism casting during the early part of the broadcast. It was also a reaction I expected to some extent.”

However, Yoo Ji An said she felt thankful when viewers began recognizing her performance as the drama continued.

She added: “I was very grateful when I saw comments saying that I had overcome the prejudice through my acting. I feel proud that I was able to prove my acting ability.”

Yoo Ji An explained that she earned the role through an audition. To match the character, she borrowed a school uniform that gave the impression of a student from a wealthy family.

She said: “Even after the audition, I continued sending acting videos to the director, receiving feedback, filming them again, and sending new versions. I think the director appreciated that effort.”

The actress also spoke about working with Seo Su Min, who made her debut in the same drama. Although their characters were in conflict, the two young actresses supported each other behind the scenes.

Yoo Ji An explained: “Everything was new for both of us, so we relied on each other and talked a lot about acting. It felt like we were growing together.”

She also praised Seo Su Min’s performance, saying: “During our scenes together, I was motivated by her eyes. I often thought that she was an actress with a powerful gaze.”

Yoo Ji An said the success of Agent Kim Reactivated exceeded her expectations. Her social media following reportedly increased from around 700 before the broadcast to nearly 90,000.

She said: “I thought the script was entertaining when I first read it, but I never imagined it would become this successful. It still feels unbelievable that a drama could pass a 20 percent rating today.”

Now filming her next project and continuing to attend auditions, Yoo Ji An hopes to show a completely different side of herself in the future.

She concluded: “I want to become an actress who shows a new face in every project. I believe my next role will be completely different from Joo Hye Ri, so I hope people will look forward to it.”