Park Hyung-sik Opens Up About His Struggles and Triumphs from Trainee Days to Stardom

Park Hyung-sik, who reportedly earned 500 million won per episode for his role in last year's drama 'Dr. Slump,' recently shared insights into his challenging trainee days, contrasting with his current success.

On the October 2nd episode of tvN's variety show 'You Quiz on the Block,' Park Hyung-sik, a former member of ZE:A and now an actor, candidly discussed his past experiences.

Reflecting on his idol trainee days, he revealed, "Before debuting with ZE:A, I was briefly with another company. I was cast while watching a band performance, but since many trainees joined through auditions, I might have seemed like an outsider. This led to some trainees distancing themselves from me," he confessed about his experience with isolation.

Park Hyung-sik admitted that his time as a trainee at that company was tough. "It was a competitive environment where people formed cliques and ostracized others. At the time, I thought it was normal. So, I focused on improving my skills, determined to be recognized for my talent," he added.

However, his loneliness began to fade when he moved to a new company. "When I joined the company where ZE:A was, I was singing alone in a room when the members approached me and invited me to eat with them. It felt like they brought me from the shadows into the light. Sharing meals and joking around opened my heart," he expressed his gratitude.

Even after debuting, Park Hyung-sik faced the harsh realities of the industry. "I thought everything would be perfect once I debuted, but I soon realized it was a jungle out there. I felt a sense of urgency and desperation, so I earnestly asked the company to give me any role. I started with cameo roles and eventually got the opportunity to appear on 'Real Men,'" he explained.

In an interview with the production team, Park Hyung-sik also shared his childhood struggles. "I was often told I lacked talent. Despite knowing this, I was so nervous that my ears turned red and my hands shook, but I wanted to do well. While filming 'Treasure Island,' I reached my physical and mental limits. I had no shortcuts, so I practiced twice as hard as others. I believed in working hard, even if it seemed foolish," he confessed.

When Yoo Jae-suk asked, "How do you feel in your 30s?" Park Hyung-sik replied, "I feel a bit more relaxed now. I think I'm learning to take better care of myself."

Finally, when asked, "What does 'Treasure Island' mean to you?" he said, "The treasure island I envision is a life full of happiness and love. These days, I'm drawn to moments that make my heart race. Watching Kwanghee struggle and Siwan go to Cannes inspired me. It made me think, 'Hyung-sik, can't you do it too?' It motivates me to work harder. The more my members succeed, the happier I become," he revealed his true feelings.

Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr