Heo Nam-jun Transforms into First Love in 'Hundred Memories', Expresses Gratitude for School Uniform Role

Actor Heo Nam-jun is generating buzz for his upcoming role as the destined first love in JTBC's new Saturday-Sunday drama, 'Hundred Memories,' set in the vibrant 1980s. The series will weave a tale of tender first love surrounding Go Young-rye (Kim Da-mi) and Seo Jong-hee (Shin Ye-eun), who worked as bus conductors on the famed route 100, and the enigmatic Han Jae-pil (Heo Nam-jun).

Heo Nam-jun takes on the character of Han Jae-pil, who, despite a seemingly perfect exterior, harbors deep emotional scars. "This character conceals a great deal, which might make him appear aloof to others, but inwardly, he hides his wounds," the actor explained. "To portray these complex emotions, I tried to embody a childlike innocence on set, more so than in any other role."

At 32, Heo Nam-jun is portraying a 19-year-old high school student and expressed his thanks to the director for the opportunity to wear a school uniform. "Externally, the hair, makeup, and outfits all contributed, but what I focused on most was maintaining a youthful mindset," he shared.

For actors who didn't experience the 1980s firsthand, embodying the era's sentiment posed a challenge. Heo Nam-jun stated, "I asked my father many questions and discussed with the director and writers to understand the era's sensibility. Rather than seeking definitive answers, I focused on capturing the atmosphere of that time."

'Hundred Memories' is set to premiere on the 13th at 10:30 PM.

Heo Nam-jun made his acting debut in the 2018 play 'The Aquarium of the Moonlight' and gained wider recognition through the 2020 web drama 'Fantasia.' His solid performances have also garnered attention in the independent film scene, highlighting his potential as a rising star.