Actor Ko Jun Opens Up About Past Trauma and Artistic Journey on 'Besties With A Meal'

Actor Ko Jun, known for his charismatic acting and unique artistic talent, will be featured on Channel A's 'Besties With A Meal' documentary.

During the show, Ko Jun invites his close friends, actor Jo Jae-yoon and comedian Lee Sang-joon, to his humble abode. Together, they share a simple meal of meal-kit doenjang-jjigae and kimchi, seated on the floor, showcasing Ko Jun's genuine 'solo-living' charm. In return, Jo Jae-yoon brings a thoughtful diffuser, and Lee Sang-joon gifts a generous portion of beef, adding to the warm atmosphere.

Upon entering Ko Jun's home, his friends are captivated by the numerous artworks displayed throughout the house. Ko Jun reveals that despite never receiving formal art education, he participated in an exhibition in New York just one year after he began painting again, astonishing his friends. A particularly notable piece, completed over 18 years, holds a poignant story of being gifted to a lover, returned after a breakup, and then further worked on—a tale that is sure to pique viewers' interest.

Ko Jun also bravely shares his childhood trauma from a severe burn accident. He recounts the difficulties he faced in socializing with peers due to his burn scars and confesses that he once aspired to become a priest. However, he gave up this dream after entering puberty and discovering his attraction to the opposite sex, drawing laughter from his friends. It was through stumbling upon a play by chance that he found a new dream: acting. He explains how pursuing acting helped him overcome his trauma, delivering a touching moment.

Inspired by Ko Jun's openness, Lee Sang-joon also shares how his current comedic style stems from his own past pain. He explains that while he initially pursued comedy to make his friends laugh, a turning point came when, after his father's absence became known, his friends stopped laughing. He then learned to create laughter by bravely revealing his own vulnerabilities first. MC Park Kyung-lim also relates, sharing her own experience of receiving rice and ramen meant for the most disadvantaged student in her class each year, finding happiness in the food rather than shame, and emphasizing how confronting poverty openly helped her overcome it.

Furthermore, Ko Jun reveals his extensive work in independent filmmaking, having produced around 60 films to support aspiring actors. He details the beginnings of this endeavor, starting with audition profile videos for unknown actors, evolving into narrative films as his technical skills improved. His independent films even garnered international recognition, including an invitation to the Cannes Film Festival. However, he requested that reporters refrain from publishing articles about his work under his real name, Kim Jun-ho. He also shares his recent venture into YouTube, creating content with new actors.

Join MC Park Kyung-lim as she delves into the life stories of stars on Channel A's 'Besties With A Meal,' airing on the 15th at 8:10 PM KST.

Netizens reacted with admiration, commenting, "Actor Ko Jun's painting skills are incredible... feeling healed," "I teared up listening to Lee Sang-joon's story. Thank you for being brave," and "Getting to know a new side of 'art-tainer' Ko Jun makes me like him even more."