Coffee Prince is one of Korea's explosive projects in the late 2000s.

The film helped Gong Yoo's name rise to new heights, becoming a cult star like it is today. .

But Gong Yoo was almost forgotten if this handsome "smile" accepted the role.

According to Soompi, the male lead role of Coffee Prince - Choi Han Kyul was not initially targeted by the crew for actor Gong Yoo.

On the other hand, actor Chun Jung Myung has just been considered as the No. 1 candidate for female director Lee Yoon Jung's film.

But unfortunately, there are 2 reasons why Chun Jung Myung could not participate in the Coffee Prince.

First, Chun Jung Myung was caught up in another project's schedule, which is the movie Hansel and Gretel.

In addition, Lee Yoon Jung immediately thought of Gong Yoo for the male lead role, and after Chun Jung Myung refused, she successfully invited Gong Yoo to participate.

A year before that, Gong Yoo had a promise with Lee Yoon Jung, and the Coffee Prince was the most suitable time.

Chun Jung Myung once expressed his deep regret when he refused Coffee Prince, as well as witnessed the film's resounding success. " It's something I regret for the rest of my life. I'm sorry Gong Yoo but this is how I really feel ."

After 8 years since Coffee Prince, Chun Jung Myung has officially collaborated with director Lee Yoon Jung in the movie Heart to Heart .

In addition, the actor also participated in many popular projects such as Cinderella's Stepsister, Love Warning , etc.

But compared to Gong Yoo, Chun Jung Myung is somewhat weaker. Thanks to Coffee Prince, Gong Yoo became a star and is currently one of the most sought-after actors in kimchi.

Source(1)

Lee Kyung Gyu's star-making influence goes beyond Kang Ho Dong, as Hong Jin Kyung shares how he helped her kickstart her career.

On the April 24 episode of KBS 2TV’s Problem Child in House, legendary comedian Lee Kyung Gyu appeared as a guest—and a touching story from the past was revealed.

Hong Jin Kyung surprised everyone when she said, “He’s the teacher for all of us. Personally, he’s the one who helped me debut.” She even pinned a carnation flower on his chest to show her gratitude.

Lee Kyung Gyu smiled and said, “I still remember when Hong Jin Kyung walked up the stairs onto the stage for the first time.”

Hong Jin Kyung then shared her journey to becoming a star. “I joined a supermodel contest, but only the top 3 winners were noticed in broadcasting. I got a special prize, so I had no chance to be on TV."

She continued, "At first, I was just a backup for a show. But somehow, I became a regular the next week. I never knew why."

She added, "I thought the PD gave me a shot. But then one day, I randomly met Kyung Gyu sunbae, and he told me it was actually him who recommended me.”

Kim Sook asked with a smile, “So Kyung Gyu sunbae said nice things about you to the PD?”

Lee Kyung Gyu playfully replied, “Don’t say it in such a childish way,” making everyone laugh.

He then explained more seriously, “The show was Scoop TV Entertainment, and I was pretty much the main MC. When Jin Kyung showed up, I saw her determination and passion."

He added, "While others didn’t seem serious, she really stood out. I told the PD, ‘She seems unique. Why not keep her on the show?’”

Kim Jong Kook chimed in, “So if the main MC said that, doesn’t that mean you basically got her in?”

That made Lee Kyung Gyu happy. He grinned and replied, “Exactly! You speak well. Be like him!”

He added, “After that, Jin Kyung’s career took off. She started doing shows with Lee Young Ja and just kept going.”

Fans are now calling Lee Kyung Gyu not only a top MC, but also a quiet star-maker behind the scenes!

Source: [1]