Credit: @style
After captivating audiences with Lovely Runner and sweeping three major awards at ASEA 2025—Best Artist, Best OST, and Fan Choice Artist— Byeon Woo Seok is stepping into a new chapter.
His next lead role? MBC’s upcoming drama 21st Century Grand Princess’s Wife (literal title), a romance set in a fictional constitutional monarchy, where he plays Prince Lee Wan, a royal born into a life where nothing is truly his to keep.
“The moment I read the script, I was certain I had to do this project no matter what,” he shares. “The story and character were so captivating that every scene vividly came to life in my head. As I got deeply absorbed into Prince Lee Wan’s narrative, it felt like my entire life up until now was somehow connected to this role.”
Credit: @style
Credit: @style
The decision wasn’t made lightly. Following the massive success of Lovely Runner , choosing his next project carefully was crucial. “It would be a lie to say I wasn’t feeling the pressure. That’s why I had to be even more careful,” Byeon admits. “But all my concerns seemed to naturally resolve within this character. And that’s why I felt like only who I am right now could really take this on.”
Reflecting on his Lovely Runner experience, the actor describes it with mixed emotions. “I felt half regret, half longing. Sun Jae was like a gift of a character that I met at a moment I had always dreamed of as an actor. The fact that viewers embraced him as wholeheartedly as I did allowed me to hold onto those warm feelings even longer.”
Credit: @style
Credit: @style
These days, Byeon Woo Seok focuses on staying authentic. “Instead of asking questions, I often remind myself to ‘just be myself.’ This job can get overwhelming sometimes, but I started it because I love it. Now that some of the moments I used to dream about have become real, I try to appreciate them,” he said. “Rather than getting pulled in different directions by expectations, I’d rather go at my own pace, follow what feels right.”
When asked about his aspirations as an actor, his response is heartfelt: “I want to be remembered as someone who works hard and continues to grow. I always try to approach people with sincerity because nothing works out well for me without genuine feelings.” He adds with a warm smile, “I want to become an actor who can convey emotions and offer warmth and comfort to people.”
Byeon Woo Seok Tears Up While Recalling His Struggles Before Fame
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