TVXQ’s Yunho Reflects on Acting, Growth, and Grit in Disney+ Drama “Low Life”

TVXQ’s U-Know Yunho has long been admired for his passionate stage presence and unwavering dedication to his craft.

But in his latest role as Jang Beol Gu in Disney+’s new crime drama “Low Life,” Yunho is taking on a bold new challenge—one that pushes his limits and reveals a raw, emotional side to his acting.

In an interview with Arena Homme Plus, Yunho opens up about stepping into this demanding role, revisiting past musical success, and the valuable life lessons that have guided his two-decade-long journey in entertainment.

Embodying a Flawed Yet Hopeful Character in “Low Life”

“Low Life” is based on a webtoon and set in 1977 Korea, a period marked by turbulence and economic disparity.

The drama follows a group of struggling countryside residents who discover a sunken treasure ship and embark on a risky quest to change their fate.

Also Read: TVXQ Members Renew Contracts With SM Entertainment

Yunho plays Jang Beol Gu, a character who, at first glance, seems like a flashy but shallow dreamer.

Yunho explained the depth behind Beol Gu’s facade:

“The character description says: ‘Beol Gu, all style and no substance.’ But the truth is, he has circumstances that others don’t know about. He’s been treated like a scoundrel his whole life.”

What makes Beol Gu more than just a caricature is his unyielding inner resolve. Yunho shared that he worked hard to convey this quiet strength on screen:

“Beol Gu has this mindset—‘Someday I’ll succeed no matter what and prove myself.’ I really wanted that determination to come through in his story.”

This performance marks a turning point for Yunho as an actor, showcasing emotional depth and vulnerability beyond his typical roles.

Taking On New Challenges After 20+ Years in the Spotlight

Despite being over 20 years into his career, Yunho views “Low Life” not as a comfortable project, but as a necessary challenge.

Known for his consistent image as a reliable leader of TVXQ and a high-energy performer, Yunho wanted to prove he could also embody complex and unpolished characters on screen.

“I’ve shown many sides of myself as an actor, but I wanted people to think, ‘Yunho can do this too?’ In that sense, ‘Low Life’ was a necessary challenge for me.”

His decision to take on Beol Gu reflects Yunho’s larger philosophy about personal growth—that discomfort often leads to breakthrough.

The Surprising Revival of “Thank U” and Reflections on Success

In an unexpected twist, Yunho’s 2021 solo track “Thank U” has recently seen a resurgence on the charts in Korea.

The track, which features dramatic orchestration and introspective lyrics, is once again resonating with listeners four years after its initial release.

Also Read: TVXQ’s Yunho Set to Make His Japanese Film Debut in the Remake of Korean Hit “The Outlaws”

Yunho admitted that the chart resurgence caught him off guard:

“When I first heard the news, I was actually in Japan. I was pretty taken aback. Honestly, I’m still a bit dazed.”

The song contains powerful life lessons, including:

• Keeping good things to yourself
• Bearing sadness alone
• Not being swayed by ups and downs

When asked what he’d add as a fourth message today, Yunho answered:

“Enduring and enduring again. I’ve been doing the same work for 20 years, and it’s still difficult and exhausting. But when you endure, good things definitely come back to you.”

Persistence, Self-Care, and Finding Your Golden Moment
Perhaps the most moving part of Yunho’s interview came when he talked about the importance of resilience in an industry known for its pressures and unpredictability.

His message was one of hope and self-compassion—a reminder to young artists and fans alike.

“I’m convinced that everyone gets their golden moment eventually. If things get tough, it’s okay to rest—as long as you come back. And to do that, you have to take good care of yourself.”

These words echo the message behind “Thank U” and mirror the transformation of his character in Low Life—a man misunderstood by society, but quietly forging a path toward redemption.

Yunho’s Ever-Evolving Legacy

From redefining K-pop in the 2000s as one-half of TVXQ, to establishing a respected solo career in music and acting, Yunho has proven himself to be an artist of enduring depth and versatility.

His role in “Low Life” and his honest reflections show that he’s not content resting on past achievements—instead, he continuously seeks growth, reinvention, and authenticity.

Yunho’s full interview and photo spread can be found in the August issue of Arena Homme Plus, where fans can see another side of the artist who has long been known as a symbol of passion and perseverance.

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