Han So Hee in BTS Jungkook’s 'Seven' music video (Youtube)

You’re probably familiar with Han So Hee through her roles in famous Korean dramas such as “The World of the Married” (2020) and “Nevertheless” (2021). Just recently, she starred in BTS Jungkook’s “Seven” music video. If she’s also piqued your curiosity, then you’re at the right place.

Let’s dive into some things you may not know about this Korean star!

1. Han So Hee is a screen name

Like many actors and idols, the 29-year-old actress uses a screen name. Her real name is Lee So Hee and she was born in Ulsan, South Korea, on November 18, 1994. The reason behind her screen name remains unknown. However, she would still occasionally use her real name on social media. 

2. She is close with her grandmother

Ever since her parents divorced, So Hee has lived with her grandmother, who has become her greatest inspiration. She explained that she’s always received parental love from her grandma and that thinking about her existence helps her calm and gain composure. 

So Hee would also upload photos of her grandma on Instagram with the caption “My everything” which shows just how much she cherishes her!

3. She worked part-time jobs to make ends meet

In 2018, she commented on a personal blog post, “Still can’t imagine how I came to Seoul, only bringing 300,000 South Korean won (about US$235) at the age of 19. It already feels like things happened 10 years ago.”

Before her debut,she worked as a waitress at a beer joint. She claimed that she would wake up, go to work, and finish up at sunrise the next day. However, despite her difficulties, she did not regret them, saying that those days made her who she is right now.

Han So Hee and SHINee Choi Min-ho in 'Tell Me What To Do'

4. Her career started out in a music video

So Hee’s debut in the entertainment industry actually started with SHINee’s “Tell Me What To Do” MV in 2016.

She also appeared in Jung Yong Hwa‘s “That Girl” MV, Roy Kim’s “The Hardest Part” MV, and Melomance’s “You&U” MV, which is why it comes as no surprise that she starred in another music video—Jungkook’s “Seven.”

5. She gained popularity in 'The World of the Married'

In 2020, she got her big break when she played the role of Yeo Da Kyung, the mistress of Lee Tae Oh (Park Hae Joon). The drama series broke records in South Korea with the highest viewer ratings.

Han So Hee as Yeo Da Kyung in 'The World of the Married'

She received flak because of her role. The viewers were so engaged in the drama that they lashed out at the actress and flooded her Instagram with tons of hate comments. 

On the brighter side, So Hee received endorsement deals from international brands L'oreal Paris, Goutal Paris, and Lanvin. Even big companies in South Korea, such as BARREL, set their sights on her. She was also nominated as best actress in the Baeksang Arts Awards.

6. She possesses impressive tattoos

With her rising popularity from “The World of Married,” fans began to dig for old photos and found ones where she had tattoos on her arms. Since then, it’s long been speculated that she had her tattoos removed when she pursued her acting career. 

Pre-debut Han So Hee with visible arm tattoos (Twitter)

She was criticized for the circulated photos, especially the one that included a cigarette. In an interview after the popular series ended, she stood firm and said, “That past self was me, and myself now is also me. I don’t think there is any much difference.”

But even without the arms tattoos, the actress can still be seen flaunting body art. Recently, she posted a photo of her with tattoos around her arms and chest on Instagram. During Paris Fashion Week 2022, she uploaded a picture that shows a slightly exposed hip tattoo and an eyebrow piercing. 

7. She’s talented at drawing

Aside from her creative inclination for acting, she also has a knack for drawing. So Hee was actually an art student in college, similar to Yu Nabi, her character in “Nevertheless” (2021). 

In the series, So Hee was allegedly the only main cast member who was not required to take art classes before shooting. Some of her works were even featured in the show. 

In the series, So Hee was allegedly the only main cast member who was not required to take art classes before shooting. Some of her works were even featured in the show. She also showcases her artistic skills on Instagram.

8. She can play diverse roles

From a university art student in a romance drama to a drug cartel member in an action series, So Hee proved how diverse she can be in acting. While preparing for another lead role in the Netflix series “My Name,” she revealed that she underwent extensive physical training a month earlier than other cast members. 

The series also made her feel that sincerity will always pay off. In an interview with The Korea Herald, So Hee said that she had to start from zero because she had never done any exercise before filming the series. 

Han So Hee as Yoon Jiwoo in 'My Name'

This proved that the rising actress can explore unfamiliar genres, portray a wide range of characters, and is not afraid to accept roles that will challenge her capabilities as an actress.

9. She was part of a unique independent flick

Yes, you read that right! Currently, So Hee's only film role is also her least known, which is in "Heavy Snow." Although it was shot years ago, it only recently premiered at the Jeonju International Film Festival in South Korea.

“Heavy Snow” is a queer indie film that features the story of an established screen star who attends an art school and has a romantic fling with her classmate, an aspiring actress.

Han So Hee as the successful actress in 'Heavy Snow'

So Hee will soon be back on our screens again with the upcoming Netflix series “Gyeongseong Creature,” a suspenseful drama set during the Japanese occupation in Korea. The first season is set to be released sometime this year. (Jaff Emielene Conejos/OJT/University of Santos Tomas)