Actor Park Joong-hoon Releases First Essay 'Don't Regret It' After 40 Years in Acting

Veteran actor Park Joong-hoon has unveiled his first essay collection, 'Don't Regret It,' marking 40 years since his acting debut. The book delves into his reflections on his extensive career and personal life.

A press conference held on the afternoon of the 4th at the Jeongdong 1928 Art Center in Jung-gu, Seoul, served as the platform for Park to share intimate details about the book. Pianist and author Moon A-ram moderated the event.

'Don't Regret It' offers a retrospective look at Park's four-decade journey as an actor and as an individual. It is drawing significant attention as his first published work and essay.

Park, born in 1966, debuted in the 1986 film 'Kambo' and went on to star in beloved movies such as 'My Love, My Bride,' 'Two Cops,' 'Nowhere to Hide,' 'Attack the Gas Station,' and 'Radio Star.' In the book, he candidly admits that the actor Park Joong-hoon is not a perfect human being.

Expressing awkwardness at being called a 'writer,' Park shared his feelings about publishing his first book. He likened the excitement to his debut in 1986, describing a rush of dopamine and happiness. While familiar with acting reviews, he confessed that writing requires revealing one's true self, leading to a mix of excitement and shyness.

Recalling his past experience writing a weekly column in 2000, Park highlighted how the process of articulating thoughts into writing helped him organize his life. He mentioned that actor Cha In-pyo persistently encouraged him to write a book, eventually leading him to undertake the project.

Park also touched upon his directing endeavors, stating that while screenplays involve fictional worldviews, his autobiographical essay necessitated writing his own story. Approaching his 60th birthday, he found the writing process to be a healing experience, akin to embracing his past self, and felt it was a gift to himself, boosting his self-esteem.

Regarding the title 'Don't Regret It,' Park explained its dual nature. While he strived not to have regrets in his 20s, he now acknowledges many things he wishes he could change. He confessed that his younger self was very impulsive and confrontational, something he now finds embarrassing.

However, he doesn't regret his foray into Hollywood with the 2001 film. Despite potential missteps in agency contracts, he believes he did his best at the time. Park included his past marijuana controversy in the book to enhance its credibility, stating that acknowledging both good and bad past actions is crucial for growth.

Looking ahead, with his 40th acting anniversary approaching, Park expressed a strong desire to return to acting. He realized that unlike directing, acting offers more flexibility and expressed enthusiasm for delivering sincere, unexaggerated performances.

Korean netizens expressed strong anticipation for the book, with comments like 'Finally, a book from senior actor Park Joong-hoon! I'm looking forward to it' and 'It seems like a book filled with the depth of his 40-year acting career, I really want to read it.' Many also showed support for his candid approach, stating 'I support your honest self.'