“Good Deeds” Kim Yoo-jung vs. “Self-Reflection” Kim Sae-ron: Contrasting Paths of Child Actor Stars
On January 13, Kim Yoo-jung posted a series of photos on her social media account, accompanied by the caption, “Forgiveness and love, acceptance and respect, loyalty and wisdom, compassion.”
In the photos, Kim Yoo-jung is seen at a subway station, dressed in a black coat, wearing a black mask, and listening to music through her earphones. She posed in front of a mirror with the phrase “Have a happy day” in the background. Her neatly tied hair and understated fashion stood out, and even with her face mostly covered, her signature captivating eyes drew attention.
Fans reacted enthusiastically, saying, “How could someone not recognize Kim Yoo-jung?” and “Which subway station is this?”
Kim Yoo-jung has gained attention for her thoughtful gestures toward her fans. In 2023, she asked fans, through her agency, to refrain from giving her personal gifts. The agency announced, “While many fans prepare gifts for the actress, she will only accept handwritten letters, bouquets and cakes that can be shared with staff. No other personal gifts will be received.” Fans praised her considerate request, further cementing her reputation as a beloved star.
Kim Yoo-jung has been a representative figure among child actors who successfully transitioned into adulthood. However, not all child stars have followed the same path. Actress Kim Sae-ron, who rose to fame alongside Kim Yoo-jung as a notable “child star”, has drawn attention for her contrasting trajectory, marred by controversies.
In 2022, Kim Sae-ron was involved in a drunk driving accident, repeatedly crashing into roadside structures, including trees and transformers, near Hakdong Intersection in Gangnam-gu, Seoul. Since then, she has been on a hiatus for self-reflection. Recently, she sparked rumors by posting then deleting photos of herself wearing a matching couple outfit with a man, accompanied by the word “MARRY”, leading to speculation about a self-proclaimed marriage.
Meanwhile, Kim Yoo-jung chose TVING’s original series “Dear X” as her next project. “Dear X” depicts the downfall of top actress Baek A-jin (Kim Yoo-jung) and her two faces hidden behind it. Additionally, Kim Yoo-jung is considering a role in “100 Days of Lies”, directed by Yoo In-sik.
