Rising Star Woo Dabi Reflects on Her Role and Journey in the Hit Drama "Jeongnyeon"

Actress Woo Dabi shares her heartfelt experiences on the set of tvN's latest drama "Jeongnyeon-i." The drama, which recently concluded, depicts the fierce competition and camaraderie among performers in the traditional Korean opera scene of the 1950s. In her role as Hong Juran, Woo Dabi provides warmth to the character Jeongnyeon, played by Kim Tae-ri, who faces jealousy and rivalry from her peers. She recounted how her initial meeting with Kim Tae-ri was nerve-wracking, highlighting the warmth and approachability of her co-star. Reflecting on her rising stardom, Woo Dabi explained why she continued to work part-time at a café even after her acting debut. She found solace in the routine, mentioning that her character also juggles similar responsibilities, creating a relatable connection. Her growing popularity has led to surprising encounters, even being recognized by regular customers who saw her on television while she worked. “Expressing complex emotions was vital in portraying Hong Juran’s evolving relationship with Jeongnyeon,” Woo Dabi noted. She emphasized the delicate balance she aimed to achieve, revealing that she practiced extensively with Kim Tae-ri to synchronize their performances emotionally. The subtle emotional nuances were crucial, especially in scenes where Juran grapples with her unexpected feelings. As the series wrapped up with a dramatic and emotional ending, many viewers expressed their disappointment at the choices made by the characters. Woo Dabi acknowledged that differences between the drama and its webtoon source material were inevitable and explained that her character's decisions reflected the limitations and societal expectations of the time. She articulated her understanding, finding it heartbreaking yet significant for the narrative. Training for her role involved rigorous vocal lessons, where she dedicated over a year to mastering the craft required for her character in the Maeran National Opera Company. She described the challenges faced in adjusting her voice, humorously recounting the difficulties at the beginning of her training. Now, looking ahead, Woo Dabi aspires to explore diverse roles, inspired by her experiences alongside seasoned actresses like Kim Tae-ri, aiming to tackle both bright and darker characters in her future projects.