From Star to Florist, Song Joong Ki's Unexpected Career Turn in 'My Youth'

Song Joong-ki embodies lost-and-found youth as a former child star confronting his past in My Youth
His portrayal captures youth's fleeting nature - both the bright beginnings and bittersweet rediscoveries
Through this role, Song Joong-ki redefines what it means to reclaim one's youthful spirit at any age

After a relatively low-profile period following his marriage to British actress Katy Louise Saunders, beloved Korean actor Song Joong Ki is finally making a grand return to the small screen with JTBC’s upcoming melodrama My Youth. The series, set to premiere on September 5, marks his first major acting project since stepping back from the spotlight to focus on his family. But this isn’t just another drama—it’s a poignant story about rediscovering lost pieces of oneself through the rekindling of first love in adulthood.

My Youth presents a poignant exploration of second chances and rekindled love, marking Song Joong-Ki's highly anticipated return to television. The actor takes on the complex role of Seon Woo-hae, a former child actor whose early promise faded into obscurity, leaving him to navigate adulthood as an ordinary florist. His fragile equilibrium is shattered when he unexpectedly reunites with his first love, Seong Je-yeon, portrayed with remarkable depth by Chun Woo-hee as a professionally accomplished yet romantically awkward manager.

At the script reading, Song Joong Ki showcased his signature emotional depth, seamlessly transitioning between quiet restraint and bursts of vulnerability. According to Chosun, the production team praised his performance, stating,

"In that moment, pent-up emotions burst forth." highlighting how his meticulous acting elevated the atmosphere.

Chun Woo-hee matched this intensity perfectly, layering each moment with palpable nostalgia and unresolved longing. Their on-screen chemistry promises a heartrending yet ultimately uplifting journey of self-discovery and reconciliation.

The drama's rich narrative tapestry is further enhanced by its stellar supporting cast. Lee Joo-myung brings vibrant energy as Mo Tae-rin, a free-spirited actress whose unfiltered personality provides delightful comic relief, while Seo Ji-hoon delivers a compelling performance as Kim Seok-ju - simultaneously Woo-hae's brother and Tae-rin's first love, creating an intriguing romantic subplot. Jin Kyung commands attention as the formidable Kim Pil-doo, a ruthless entertainment CEO and Seok-ju's mother who serves as a primary source of tension. Jo Han-chul's portrayal of Seon Woo-chan, Woo-hae's whimsical yet irresponsible father, adds layers of humor and warmth to balance the drama's more emotional moments. Rounding out the ensemble, Yoon Byung-hee and Lee Bong-ryeon deliver memorable performances as loyal friends and colleagues who infuse the story with additional depth and vitality.

Helmed by acclaimed director Lee Sang-yeop of Yumi's Cells fame and written by Park Si-hyun of Run On, My Youth combines exquisite storytelling with profound emotional resonance. The series not only explores how past loves can unexpectedly resurface but also examines how these encounters force characters to confront long-buried regrets and rediscover forgotten aspects of themselves. As Song Joong-Ki makes his dramatic comeback following his marriage and family life, this project serves as both a compelling narrative and a reflection of his artistic maturation - showcasing his ability to balance vulnerability, resilience, and the quiet hope of redemption. Set to premiere on September 5, My Youth promises to be one of the most emotionally resonant and beautifully crafted dramas of the year.

Song Joong Ki Latest Acting, Reflections on Struggles in the Film Industry

While fans eagerly await his drama comeback, Song Joong Ki’s recent film Bogota (released December 2024) faced disappointing box office numbers—a harsh reality he openly addressed during a GV (guest visit) session. Alongside co-stars Lee Hee Joon and Lee Sung Min, he shared candid thoughts on the current state of Korean cinema.

"As Lee Sung Min stated, Korean movies are having a difficult time these days. I’m honestly thankful that our movie is even showing in theaters right now. I’ve been working harder than ever to get our movie promoted,” Song Joong Ki admitted, quoted from Koreaboo.

His voice wavered as he added, "The movie industry is challenging, but it’s our role to create quality content that will comfort the audience, make them laugh during difficult times, and give them strength."

Overcome with emotion, he paused before whispering, "I’m tearing up a bit while talking. Anyway, thank you."

His vulnerability resonated deeply, reminding fans of the immense pressure actors face beyond glamorous premieres. Despite Bogota’s struggles, Song remains committed to his craft—a dedication that extends to his upcoming drama.

Since marrying Katy Louise Saunders in January 2023, Song Joong Ki has embraced a quieter life, prioritizing his role as a husband and father. The couple welcomed their first child, a son, in June 2023, followed by a daughter in November 2024. In a rare interview at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival, Song shared how his wife’s support has been invaluable, even guiding him through the festival’s logistics based on her past experiences as an actress.

"My wife, although she is a retired actress now, had attended the [Cannes Film Festival] several times when she was an actress. She told me where the Lumière Theatre was as well as her past experiences at the festival,” he revealed.

He also touched on cultural differences in parenting, noting how Western practices encourage pregnant women to stay active—a contrast to Korean traditions.

Though his public appearances have dwindled, Song’s influence remains undeniable. From weathering career challenges to embracing fatherhood, his journey reflects a man recalibrating his priorities without losing passion for his art. As My Youth prepares to air, audiences await not just a stellar performance, but a glimpse into the evolved artist Song Joong Ki has become.

Song Joong Ki’s return is more than a comeback—it’s a rebirth. Through My Youth, he revisits themes of lost and rediscovered love, mirroring his own career’s ebbs and flows. Add in his candid reflections on industry hardships and the joy he finds in family, and it’s clear: this isn’t just another role. It’s the next chapter of Song Joong Ki’s story, and fans are ready to turn the page.

Source: Chosun, Koreaboo