The world of K-dramas is known for its captivating storylines and rising stars, and recently, actor Cho Han Gyul has been generating buzz not only for his role in the popular series Undercover Miss Hong, but also for a remarkably unusual casting story. The 28-year-old actor, who plays Albert Oh in the tvN workplace comedy, recounted a memorable audition experience – one that occurred although he was, quite literally, caught off guard.
Cho Han Gyul’s story, shared on the latest episode of Hong Seok Cheon’s “Treasure Box” YouTube show, quickly gained traction online. As reported by multiple outlets, including KpopHit, the actor was approached by a representative from an entertainment company while at a public bathhouse. The unexpected encounter, as he described it, unfolded as he was preparing to get dressed after his bath.
An Unconventional Scouting
“I really love saunas—I go about five or six times a week,” Cho Han Gyul explained on the show. “One time, I was in the bath with a friend when I felt someone staring at me. The person was looking at me so openly that I wondered why. I went out to get dressed, and just as I was about to put on my clothes, a man said, ‘Excuse me.’” The man, it turned out, was a talent scout. Cho Han Gyul initially informed the scout that he was already represented by an agency, but the timing – being completely unclothed – added a layer of surreal humor to the situation.
The story quickly went viral, highlighting the sometimes-unconventional methods employed in the competitive world of Korean entertainment. The incident underscores the intense focus on physical appearance within the industry, and the lengths to which scouts will go to identify potential talent. Cho Han Gyul, standing at 181 cm (approximately 5 feet 11 inches), noted that people often underestimate his height, assuming he’s closer to 170 cm. He attributed his stature to a childhood diet rich in food provided by his father.
From Baseball Player to Rising Actor
Beyond his height, Cho Han Gyul’s athletic build also played a role in attracting attention. He revealed that he was a dedicated baseball player throughout elementary school and into his second year of high school, a background that contributed to his physique. This athletic foundation, combined with his striking looks, clearly made a lasting impression on the scout at the bathhouse.
Undercover Miss Hong and Rising Popularity
Cho Han Gyul’s current role as Albert Oh in Undercover Miss Hong is contributing to his growing recognition. The series, which premiered on tvN on January 17, 2026, and is also available on TVING and Netflix, is a workplace comedy set in 1997 Seoul. According to Wikipedia, the show follows an elite securities inspector, Hong Keum-bo (played by Park Shin-hye), who goes undercover as a junior employee to investigate financial wrongdoing. The series has garnered attention for its blend of comedy, suspense, and nostalgic setting.
The actor’s casting story has undoubtedly added to the intrigue surrounding him and his work. While unconventional, it highlights the often-unexpected paths individuals take to break into the entertainment industry. The story has resonated with audiences, offering a lighthearted glimpse into the sometimes-surreal world of talent scouting in South Korea.
The full episode of “Treasure Box” featuring Cho Han Gyul’s story can be viewed here on YouTube.
As Undercover Miss Hong continues its run on tvN, viewers can expect to notice more of Cho Han Gyul’s character, Albert Oh, and further development of the show’s central mystery. The series is scheduled to air every Saturday and Sunday at 21:10 (KST), offering fans regular updates on the unfolding investigation and comedic workplace dynamics.
What do you consider of Cho Han Gyul’s unusual casting story? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and be sure to share this article with fellow K-drama fans!
