Park Ji-hyun Shares How She Personally Funded Luxury Outfits for 'The Story of Park's Marriage Contract'

Actress Park Ji-hyun has revealed the lengths she went to for her role in the Netflix original series, 'The Story of Park's Marriage Contract,' even going as far as to purchase high-end clothing with her own money.

In a recent interview held at a cafe in Samcheong-dong, Seoul, Park Ji-hyun discussed her portrayal of Sang-yeon in the drama. The series, which delves into the complex and intertwined lives of two friends, Eun-jung and Sang-yeon, has garnered significant international attention, ranking fifth in Netflix's Global Top 10 series in the non-English category.

Park explained her unique approach to embodying characters, stating, "I've mentioned before that I enjoy shopping, but I tend to buy clothes related to the character rather than for my personal enjoyment. I also like utilizing them. So, when I take on a role, my closet transforms into the character's."

She elaborated on how this process aids her performance: "After filming, it essentially becomes a storage space. A typical person's closet is filled with their own tastes, but mine is different. In a way, it feels like my hobby. Styling according to references seems to help me both as an actress and externally."

Specifically for her role as Sang-yeon, who ages from her 20s to 40s, Park had to embody a successful and wealthy businesswoman in her 40s. She noted the challenges of pre-production dramas, where brand sponsorships are often unavailable. "Since sponsorships weren't possible, I bought everything myself," she admitted.

Park shared that she consulted her surroundings for inspiration: "I had many discussions with the styling team, and while the 20s and 30s styling were important, I felt the 40s styling was the most crucial. I have many older female acquaintances, and I drew a lot of inspiration from their fashion. I personally purchased various outfits, accessories, and even items like luggage, scarves, and watches."

Reflecting on the impact of these details, she added, "Those kinds of details, I personally enjoy them. There are times when it feels burdensome or I wonder if I was too greedy, but when I see the results and people say, 'She really looks like she's in her 40s,' or 'The outfits are so well done,' I feel proud internally." She humorously confessed, "Honestly, I never get to wear such luxurious brands in my daily life. I always wear tracksuits. But then again, I think, maybe I'll use them for other roles someday. My closet might turn into a costume room, and I worry about when I'll be able to save money, telling myself I need to cut back, but it's difficult."

When asked about the most expensive item she purchased for Sang-yeon, Park replied, "It was a watch. I don't use it now. I just keep it safely."

Park Ji-hyun made her acting debut in the 2014 film 'The Youth.' She gained wider recognition for her supporting roles in dramas like 'The Master of Revenge' and 'Love Returns.' Her performance in the 2022 hit drama 'Reborn Rich' as the eldest daughter-in-law of a chaebol family significantly boosted her popularity.