Actor Kim Joo Ryoung shared her thoughts on the conclusion of the drama "Queen of Tears."

On April 28, as the tvN weekend drama "Queen of Tears" approached its finale, Kim Joo Ryoung expressed, "I am happy that many viewers enjoyed the drama. The response from overseas viewers has also been enthusiastic."

She added, "As a viewer myself, I laughed and cried along with each episode. On set, I was amazed by the focus and concentration displayed by the cheerful actors during their performances".

Continuing, she said, "I, too, have been greatly influenced. I had many concerns about how to approach the character of Grace, but thanks to the effort I put into my acting, viewers were able to immerse themselves in her story. I would like to express my deep gratitude to the writer and director who allowed me to showcase a new side of myself."

The character Grace Go, portrayed by Kim Joo Ryoung, is a once-successful link between the upper-class single mothers and the heart of Queens Department Store.

Although she once aspired to be the store's CEO, setbacks led her to navigate the complexities between the Queens family and her own mother, raising the overall quality of the drama.

In the early episodes, Grace's ability to evoke both anger and sympathy from viewers was due to Kim Joo Ryoung's versatile acting. Her ever-changing facial expressions, charisma, and eloquence captivated audiences without losing clarity.

As the series progressed, Kim Joo Ryoung's rediscovery garnered praise, and her skillful portrayal kept viewers curious about Grace's eventual choices.

Kim Joo Ryoung concluded, "It's hard to believe that today marks the final broadcast. What if tears flow? I believe the lingering impact will remain. Having received so much love, I will continue to strive for excellent performances in my next project. To all the viewers who loved 'Queen of Tears,' thank you."

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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]