Born in 1985, Jae Rim rose to prominence in the K-drama scene after debuting on MBC’s The Moon Embracing the Sun in 2012, where he starred alongside Kim Soo-hyun. He was also noted for roles in hits such as Cool Guys, Hot Ramen, Inspiring Generation, Two Weeks and Queen Woo. In addition, the actor also starred in films such as Grand Prix, The Suspect and Bait. Last month, he took to the stage to perform in the musical La Rose De Versailles.
Interview with Jae Rim: Rising Star of K-Drama and Musical Theater
By Time.news Editor
In the dynamic world of K-drama and theater, few names resonate as strongly as Jae Rim. Born in 1985, he has captured audiences with his compelling performances on screen and stage. Recently, he has gained attention for his role in the musical “La Rose De Versailles.” We had the opportunity to speak with Jae Rim about his journey, insights into the K-drama industry, and advice for aspiring actors.
Q: Jae Rim, your career in K-drama took off with “The Moon Embracing the Sun.” How did that experience shape your journey as an actor?
A: “The Moon Embracing the Sun” was a transformative experience for me. Working alongside talented actors like Kim Soo-hyun helped me understand the depth of character portrayal in K-drama. It was a pivotal moment that opened many doors for me in the industry and taught me the importance of embodying diverse roles with authenticity.
Q: You’ve starred in several successful K-dramas such as “Cool Guys, Hot Ramen” and “Queen Woo.” What do you believe sets K-drama apart from other television genres?
A: K-drama has a unique storytelling style that combines emotional depth with cultural nuance. The way these stories blend romance, action, and humor resonates with audiences both locally and internationally. The production quality and the passion of the teams behind these dramas create an immersive viewer experience that is hard to replicate in other genres.
Q: Beyond television, you’ve also ventured into film with notable works like “The Suspect” and “Grand Prix.” What challenges do you face when transitioning between the two mediums?
A: Each medium offers its unique challenges. In film, you have less time to develop characters as you do in a series, so every moment counts. However, the ability to delve into character backstories and development in K-dramas is incredibly rewarding. I thrive on this balance; the thrill of performance in both formats keeps me motivated as an artist.
Q: Recently, you performed in the musical “La Rose De Versailles.” What inspired you to take on a role in musical theater?
A: The world of musical theater has always fascinated me. The combination of music, acting, and dancing creates a comprehensive performance that’s incredibly fulfilling. “La Rose De Versailles” has a rich historical narrative that I connect with deeply. It allowed me to push my creative boundaries and showcase my versatility as an actor.
Q: For aspiring actors looking to break into K-drama and theater, what practical advice do you have?
A: My advice would be to stay true to your passion and constantly hone your craft. Attend acting workshops, take classes in movement or voice, and be open to feedback. Building a solid foundation is crucial. And importantly, be patient—success in this industry often takes time, resilience, and a willingness to adapt.
Q: how do you envision the future of K-drama and musical theater in the coming years?
A: The future looks bright! As K-drama continues to gain global popularity, I believe we will see even more diverse storytelling and innovative productions. Musical theater will also grow as audiences become more interested in live performances. I’m excited to see how these industries evolve and how I can be part of that journey.
Jae Rim’s trajectory in both K-drama and musical theater is a testament to his dedication and versatility as an artist. As he continues to captivate audiences, his insights provide valuable guidance for both viewers and aspiring performers in the entertainment world.