Jo Bo-ah Talks Marriage, Children Plans, and Netflix’s Dear Hongrang: “I Still Live Like I’m in My 20s”
In a heartfelt interview held on May 19 at a café in Samcheong-dong, Seoul, Jo Bo-ah shared her thoughts on the drama, her marriage, and future dreams of family life.
In Dear Hongrang, Jo stars as Jae-yi, the stepsister of Hong Rang (played by Lee Jae-wook), the long-lost son of Joseon’s largest trading family. When he returns after 12 years with no memory of his past, only Jae-yi suspects something is amiss.
On-Screen Chemistry and Off-Screen Bond
The drama explores identity, memory, and longing in a hauntingly atmospheric setting.
“We finished filming around May last year, and it’s finally been released after about a year,” Jo said. “The shoot lasted about eight months—it was a long journey.”
Jo Bo-ah shared that viewers were deeply moved by the show’s emotional ending and praised both her and co-star Lee Jae-wook. She highlighted Lee’s passion and reliability during challenging shoots, saying they worked well together and that she felt she could truly trust him.
Their off-screen rapport grew quickly:
“He has a great personality. If someone’s shy when I approach them, I become cautious too. But Jae-wook was open, so we clicked right away. I even called him ‘angel’ by the end,” she laughed.
Balancing Youthful Spirit and Public Image
When asked about her own personality, Jo revealed:
“I try to live like I’m still in my 20s—simple and carefree. I want to hold on to that part of myself.”
Jo also spoke candidly about her appearance on variety shows:
“It wasn’t about being funny—I wanted to show who I really am. I felt like I wasn’t connecting enough with people, so I made an effort through that format.”
Private Marriage and Hopes for the Future
In October last year, Jo surprised fans by announcing her marriage, despite having no public dating rumors beforehand.
“I’ve always had romantic ideas about marriage,” she shared. “But I was so passionate about work, I kept postponing it. I try to keep my work and personal life separate.”
Though she remained discreet about her husband, she affectionately admitted:
“He looks really good to me. Honestly… I think he’s too good for me.”
On future plans and children, Jo said:
“My parents gave me a warm and loving home. I’ve always wanted to create that kind of family myself.”
As for a honeymoon, she added, “We haven’t planned one yet.”
With Dear Hongrang now streaming on Netflix, Jo Bo-ah’s graceful balance of honesty and elegance continues to endear her to fans worldwide—both on and off screen.