Park Hyung-Sik Is Drawn To The Beautiful Scenery In Historical K-Dramas

Park Hyung-sik enjoys enjoys performing in different kinds of media because he likes a challenge. As well as starring in dramas such as Strong Woman Do Bong-Soon and Happiness and the film Juror 8, he’s acted in musicals that include Bonnie and Clyde and The Three Musketeers. Park, who debuted in the k-pop group ZE:A, has been a cast member on several variety shows and appeared in the celebrity reality show: In The Soop: Friendship Trip. He currently stars in Our Blooming Youth, a historical drama set during the Joseon Era, playing Lee Hwan, a crown prince who believes he is cursed by a supernatural enemy.

“I am motivated by new challenges,” said Park. “I like to take on challenges that spark my curiosity. New experiences in different genres and areas are the driving force behind my growth.”

Our Blooming Youth is Park’s second historical drama as he previously appeared in Hwarang. In that drama he played a king targeted by assassination attempts. So, he’s already mastered some of the challenges associated with appearing in historical dramas.

“I learned horseback riding and martial arts as I was filming Hwarang, which helped me as I filmed Our Blooming Youth,” he said.

One of the reasons he opted for another historical drama is how much he likes them.

“What appeals to me the most about historical dramas is the scenery that shows our past and beautiful nature,” said Park. “Our Blooming Youth has everything from mystery to romance, as well as various portrayals of youth.”

Despite being the crown prince, the crown prince lacks confidence. His confidence was first shaken when he received a mysterious letter warning him of the curse. His obvious concern, combined with the disabling effects of an arrow wound, make some court officials doubt he’s suited to be crown prince. His right to the throne may be challenged by those who prefer another heir. Fortunately, he meets Jae-yi, played by Jeon So-nee. She arrives at the palace to profess her innocence in the crime of murdering her family. As an amateur detective, she does not believe in curses and wonders if the prince’s curse letter is the work of his enemies. The two form an uneasy alliance.

Park did not find the prince an easy character to play, despite some similarities in their personalities.

“Lee Hwan and I are similar in that we know how to appreciate and love those who are precious to us,” said Park. “Out of the characters I have played so far, Lee Hwan was the most difficult character. I had to put in effort and time to understand him. I know I tried my best, so I hope you get to love him.”

The production provided many happy memories of working on set with co-stars Jeon So-nee, Yun Jeong-suk, Pyo Ye-jin, and Lee Tae-sun. They are memories Park will treasure.

“As many actors gathered together to film Our Blooming Youth, the set was always full of stories and laughter,” he said. “Many of these moments remain as precious memories.”

The drama, produced by Studio Dragon, airs on Viki.com in the US