Kim Jung-eun Shares a Touching Story About Kim Gook-jin: "My No. 1, Without Question" ('Radio Star')

[Sportschosun reporter Jo Yoon-sun] Actress Kim Jung-eun will share a story about Kim Gook-jin.

The MBC "Radio Star" episode airing on Wednesday, the 17th, will be a special titled "Short-Form Lovers," featuring Kim Jung-eun, Lee Han-wi, Solbi, and Kinky. The show is produced by Choi Yoon-jung and directed by Yoon Hye-jin, Hwang Yun-sang, and Byun Da-hee.

On the show, Kim Jung-eun will first reveal the unusual history behind the production team's casting attempts. She says she had been invited to appear in several past specials, but at the time she could not easily decide to take part. She also mentions a special title that made her wonder whether she was even qualified to appear, drawing laughter in the studio. This time, however, she explains that she decided to join because she believes "being funny is the best." She adds that she has come to feel how important it is to bring laughter both in everyday life and on set, showing her enthusiasm as an aspiring entertainer.

She will also talk about her recent challenge with short-form dramas. Kim Jung-eun says she experienced a set where episodes are brief and the pace is fast, and she was surprised by the filming style and atmosphere, which are different from those of full-length dramas. She also explains what makes short-form dramas unique, especially the need to quickly convey a character's emotions and the events within a limited time. Even as a veteran actress, she says the format felt fresh to her.

The episode will also cover her role as Hwang Geum-ju in the drama "Strong Girl Nam-soon." Kim Jung-eun opens up about the catharsis she felt while playing Hwang Geum-ju, a character who is wealthy and bold in everything she does.

Kim Jung-eun also reveals an unexpected global episode sparked by "Strong Girl Nam-soon." After hearing that world-famous model Naomi Campbell had mentioned the series, Kim Jung-eun shares the story of how she personally sent a message through SNS, adding to the curiosity.

She will also reveal the secret behind the leather suit look that became another hot topic for Hwang Geum-ju. Kim Jung-eun credits her consistent self-care for being able to pull off such a striking style, even in photos that were released without retouching. She says she focused on yoga and stretching to shape her body lines, and she demonstrates yoga poses on set. In particular, a high-difficulty couple yoga challenge with Kim Gu-ra, who has Pilates experience, leads to unexpected back-and-forth banter and plenty of laughter.

The episode will also revisit one of the works that best represents Kim Jung-eun's acting career. She recalls a memorable scene from "Lovers in Paris" and shares behind-the-scenes stories from the shoot. She talks about how she moved her body before filming to raise her energy for the lively, lovable character, as well as the ad-libs that naturally emerged in her scenes with Park Shin-yang. In particular, she brings back memories by explaining how an ad-lib helped carry the flow of the kiss scene.

She will also reveal the story behind shaving her head for the drama "Sunflower" during her days as a newly recruited MBC actress. Kim Jung-eun honestly talks about how she ended up cutting her hair for the role and how her family reacted. The episode also shares a bittersweet and funny story about how this anecdote later led to her being mentioned as a possible guest for "Radio Star's" "Bald Special," drawing more laughter.

Kim Jung-eun will also talk about a special connection she had with Kim Gook-jin before her acting debut. Recalling a dramatic moment when she unexpectedly ended up sitting in as an MC for a dating show, she mentions Kim Gook-jin's consideration and warm attitude at the time. Kim Jung-eun calls Kim Gook-jin "my No. 1, without question," showing her deep admiration and adding a warm touch to the story.

From her short-form drama challenge to the behind-the-scenes story of Hwang Geum-ju in "Strong Girl Nam-soon," the memorable scenes from "Lovers in Paris," and her special connection with Kim Gook-jin, Kim Jung-eun's wide-ranging stories will be featured on "Radio Star" airing at 10:30 p.m. on Wednesday, the 17th.