Choi Woo Shik Revealed He Once Lost His Passion For Acting And How He Overcomes Stress

He’s such a hard worker.

On December 30, Vogue Korea released gorgeous photographs of actor Choi Woo Shik. Along with the great photographs was an interview section where the actor discussed his current projects and personal stories.

The personal story was pretty emotional as he discussed a time in his career where he almost lost his passion for acting. The story came about when he was asked why he appeared on variety shows that revolved around healing:

Why do you keep appearing in ‘healing’ entertainment programs?

I probably told you about it during the Hunting Time interview. I changed. Because I wanted to do enough to play against my parents wishes, I had little stress while working before. The result of the work is also important, but I was happy with the process of preparing and filming. But the fun of the process gradually lessened. I also developed insomnia due to the pressure to act better and meet people’s expectations. As a result, people were crooked and pointed. I didn’t know what to pursue and it wasn’t like me. Whether it’s a movie, drama, or entertainment program, I wanted to enjoy the process and be happy. To do this long work that I love. So, rather than staying still, I participated in programs such as ‘Summer Vacation’ and ‘Yunsikdang’ and I am trying to consistently do my work in a way that does not damage the surroundings even though it is Corona 19.

— Choi Woo Shik

The interviewer then asked Choi Woo Shik why he didn’t take a break

After debuting (2011), I rarely took a break. All I have to do is take 3-4 months after filming of ‘Parasite’ and 2 months after ‘Wonderland.’ People who have played know how to play, but as time suddenly came, emptiness and anxiety came in. Since I am not confident in this field, I also am impatience and need to do something quickly. When a good work comes out at home and abroad, I have to follow it quickly, but what do I want to do? I think I can rest for a month or two, but you shouldn’t blame me for more than that.

— Choi Woo Shik

Have you rarely been off for 10 years?

I started with minor roles and supporting roles, and I also took many dramas at once.I think I’m getting into a busy life.I want to do one thing rather than rest.

— Choi Woo Shik

In two previous interviews, you said, “It’s so much fun to work rather than rest.”

Yes, but there were ups and downs. We first met in our movie ‘The Giant?’ At the time, I was in a dark place. I was down so much that comforting people around me said, ‘Don’t think so badly.’

— Choi Woo Shik

It appears that Choi Woo Shik puts himself under constant work and pressure. Luckily, the actor shares how he rests and overcomes stress.

When I’m under stress, I drive or go on a trip. I picked Goseong, Hawaii, and Bali in Gangwon-do as my favorite destinations. It’s all sea. I usually like mountains, but these days the sea is attractive to me. Rather than going to see something, I like to stay in nature and eat in the neighborhood. I hope the days will come when we all eat in-flight meals and smell the tour buses.

— Choi Woo Shik

Loving nature, Choi Woo Shik shares the activities he does outdoors:

I also enjoy camping. I like it very much, but I am avpiding it because of COVID-19. When things get better, I want to go camping with my friends. We carry minimal camping gear and leave on scooter.

— Choi Woo Shik

Choi Woo Shik also stated that he does calm things such as meditating:

During ‘Summer Vacation,’ I first learned meditation from Jeong Yoo mi’s sister. At the time, when I looked in the mirror, I looked bright. With positive thoughts and gratitude, my face changed. Although I am lazy, I want to meditate more in the future. I am glad to find out how to do it for me.

— Choi Woo Shik

Choi Woo Shik sounds like a persistent and hardworking person. Despite the pressure and stress he puts on himself, it’s great to hear that he finds methods to relieve them.

Source: Vogue Korea