Top actress Kim Sung-ryung, who debuted after winning the Miss Korea title in 1988, recently appeared on tvN's You Quiz on the Block and candidly discussed her acting career and a unique idea for her upcoming 60th birthday.
The episode aired on January 22 and showcased her charm, with the show earning an impressive 5.0% average viewership rating in the Seoul metropolitan area (peaking at 6.9%) and 4.5% nationwide (peaking at 5.9%), claiming the top spot in its time slot across cable and comprehensive programming channels.
Kim opened up about how she entered the acting world by chance but initially lacked confidence in her craft. This led her to make a bold decision at age 38: enrolling in Kyung Hee University's Theater and Film Department to formally study acting.
Reflecting on her career, Kim shared, “There are actors like Yum Jung-ah, Go Hyun-jung, and Lee Honey, whose acting is so impressive that you forget their Miss Korea titles. Like them, I also want to be remembered as an actor for my performances, not just my looks.”
Kim also revealed her dream for a one-of-a-kind 60th birthday celebration. “I want to invite all the actors who played my children in my projects—like Lee Min-ho, Song Joong-ki, and Yeon Woo-jin—and have a big party,” she said, drawing laughter from the hosts. In The Heirs, Kim famously played Lee Min-ho’s mother. During the episode, she sent a video message to Lee, saying, “I’m living well, thanks to you,” showing her affection for her co-stars.
Despite her success, Kim admitted her journey hasn’t been without challenges. She revealed that she has been battling spasmodic dysphonia, a condition that affects her voice, for years. “It’s not a vocal cord issue—it’s a brain issue. At first, I didn’t understand why my voice was shaky and wouldn’t come out. After taking an endoscopic exam, I discovered the problem. But I’ve overcome a lot through exercise,” she explained.
Kim, a self-proclaimed fitness enthusiast, has stuck to a rigorous workout routine for 18 years without a single break. Even when filming ends late, she ensures she exercises the next day. Her fitness repertoire includes weight training, Pilates, yoga, surfing, freediving, and Gyrotonic. Thanks to her consistent efforts, she maintains an enviable physique and health at 57.
Her habit of collecting inspiring quotes in a personal notebook also sparked interest during the show. From soccer player Lee Young-pyo’s wisdom to notes about condolence money records, her notebook amazed host Yoo Jae-suk. Kim concluded by saying, “I always prepare myself to be needed. That’s why fans call me ‘So Sung-ryung,’” referring to her passion for acting.
Kim Sung-ryung’s unrelenting drive and openness about her challenges left a lasting impression on viewers, proving once again why she remains a beloved figure in the industry.
Having appeared in over 70 productions, including Yawang, The Heirs, and The Chaser, Kim Sung-ryung has continuously moved audiences with her performances. With her unwavering passion for acting, it’s clear that her journey is far from over, and fans can look forward to more memorable moments from this dedicated star.