Lee Young-ae Reflects on 35-Year Career and Upcoming Drama Return: "KBS Reached Out"

Veteran actress Lee Young-ae has candidly shared her thoughts on her extensive 35-year career, encompassing numerous commercials and her anticipated return to the drama scene.

Appearing on the KBS CoolFM show 'Park Myung-soo's Radio Show' on the 11th, Lee Young-ae and co-star Kim Young-kwang from the upcoming drama 'A Day of Eun-soo' created a warm and friendly atmosphere.

When asked about her reputation as a 'commercial queen,' Lee Young-ae readily agreed. She reminisced about her debut commercial for chocolate in the early 1990s, which featured the then-top star Andy Lau. "I remember that time clearly. I was a sophomore in college and was unexpectedly called to the set while working a part-time job. I only realized later that he was Andy Lau," she recalled. She also mentioned a chance encounter with actor Lee Byung-hun during her part-time days, with whom she modeled for a catalog.

Regarding her iconic nickname, 'The Oxygen-like Woman,' she expressed, "It's a bit embarrassing, but I'm still grateful to the fans who call me that." On her recent decision to return to acting in a drama, she stated, "KBS extended an offer, and my heart was open to new opportunities, which led to this chance." She showcased her enduring, humble charm.

Kim Young-kwang expressed his excitement, saying, "I decided to join because I had the opportunity to work with the senior actress Lee Young-ae, whom I've always respected." He also shared insights into the positive atmosphere on the set of 'A Day of Eun-soo.' Both actors expressed their anticipation for the drama's premiere, hinting that it will delve into profound themes about family and human relationships.

'A Day of Eun-soo,' set to air its first episode on the 20th, is a KBS 2TV weekend drama that will unravel the intertwined story of Kang Eun-soo (Lee Young-ae), an ordinary mother striving to protect her family, and Lee Kyung (Kim Young-kwang), an after-school art instructor harboring a secret.

Lee Young-ae officially debuted in the 1991 MBC drama 'Gyeong' and briefly paused her career due to a car accident in 1993. Her performance in the 2003 film 'Oldboy' earned critical acclaim and an invitation to the Cannes Film Festival. She married businessman Jung Ho-young in 2009 and has two children, a son and a daughter.