Actress Jung Eun Chae has received praise for her role of a lifetime.
In Sunday’s episode of the tvN weekend drama Jeongnyeon: The Star Is Born, Jung’s character Moon Ok Kyung created intense tension by holding a press conference to address an opium scandal. Despite the charged atmosphere, she completed the performance of The Fool and the Princess, only to surprise everyone by announcing her departure from the Maeran Gukgeuk group to pursue a career in film.
Jung delivered a powerful performance, leaving a strong impression with her parting words to Hyerang (played by Kim Yoon Hye), “Hyerang, today your acting was the best. Take care, Princess,” she said in a cold yet heart-fluttering tone.
Early in the show, Jung’s character left a lasting impact by discovering Jeongnyeon (played by Kim Tae Ri), a natural-born voice talent, and guiding her into the world of traditional theater. In Jamyeonggo, she delivered an overwhelming performance and voice fitting for the prince of traditional theater, adding to the show’s appeal through her deeply immersive portrayal. Although her character is a top star with unmatched popularity, she subtly portrays the ennui and hollow nature of someone stuck in a state of boredom, which has earned her praise.
Jung has also heightened the drama’s tension through a poignant yet chilly relationship with Hyerang while exhibiting dynamic chemistry with other Maeran Gukgeuk group members, including Jeongnyeon and Yeongseo (played by Shin Ye Eun), adding to the show’s enjoyment. Notably, despite her character’s sense of weariness toward traditional theater, her gentle approach to juniors and fans has captivated viewers.
Jung’s agency revealed that she underwent extensive preparation to embody the male lead in the Maeran Gukgeuk group, a character known as the prince of traditional theater. With this highly praised role of a lifetime, there is significant anticipation for Jung’s next steps.