Rising Star Go Youn-jung’s Casting Sparks Mixed Reactions: Are Age Gaps Holding Her Back?
Go Youn-jung, born in 1996, is undeniably one of Korea’s most promising actresses in her 20s. Despite her momentum, her recent casting announcements have stirred controversy: not for her roles, but for her co-stars.
In her upcoming drama “Can This Love Be Translated?“, Go will star opposite Kim Seon-ho, born in 1986. In another project, “Everyone is Fighting Their Own Worthlessness” (tentative title) she’s paired with Koo Kyo-hwan, born in 1982. While both male actors are praised for their acting prowess, some netizens are raising eyebrows over the significant age and career gap between them and Go Youn-jung.
Fans are asking: Why isn’t Korea’s hottest 20-something actress being paired with peers of her own generation?
This isn’t the first time these concerns have emerged. In her current role in Resident Playbook, Go shares a romantic plotline with Jung Joon-won, eight years her senior. The chemistry has split viewers—some appreciate the dynamic, while others say it feels more like a teacher-student relationship than a believable romance.
It’s worth noting that there’s a shortage of male actors in their 20s who match Go’s current star power and range. Still, many fans and industry watchers feel there’s untapped potential in pairing her with fresh, similarly-aged talent to unlock new and compelling chemistry onscreen.
The critique isn’t aimed at Go herself, her performances consistently impress. Rather, the debate reflects a broader desire to see her full potential realized through balanced casting choices. She’s reached a stage in her career where every role she takes not only shapes her path but also the stories that young female characters can tell.
