“The show’s outcome was good, sure, but this series holds a special place in my heart because I can continue my connection with the actors I worked with.”
The drama follows the story of Mi-jin, a desperate jobseeker who finds herself trapped in the body of an older woman during the day and returning to her younger self at night.
Jung expressed more affection for her fellow actors than for her own achievements, especially for Lee.
“I’ve always been curious about Lee since her previous work. Her ability to transform completely for each role intrigued me. I wanted to know everything about her preparation process and her on-set presence,” Jung said.
“When I heard that Lee was confirmed for the cast, I immediately decided to take on the challenge after receiving the script and offer [for this drama].”
According to Jung, Lee was a wonderful mentor and friend on set.
“Lee is not only a senior in acting but also a great sister to me. Despite being 24 years older, she treated me so warmly and casually.”
She ventured into acting a year later, taking on the lead role of Reply 1997, in which she perfectly emulated an early K-pop fan with someone going through the trials of first love.
Since then, she has steadily built her acting career with roles in various films and dramas, including school drama Cheer Up! and seasons one and two of the series Work Later, Drink Now.
Despite her considerable acting experience, Jung says she occasionally struggled to relate to her character Mi-jin, a young jobseeker in tough times.
“I value rationality over emotions, so at first I couldn’t understand Mi-jin’s life pace. Questions like ‘Why is she so hesitant?’ and ‘Why can’t she just be honest?’ kept coming to me.”
To better understand Mi-jin, Jung continuously explored her character’s motives.
“During the process, I realised that everyone has their own pace in life. Though I couldn’t relate wholly, people around me said they deeply empathised with Mi-jin’s struggles.
“From then on, I observed how these people approached life and learned that everyone’s pace deserves respect.”
Jung attributed the drama’s popularity to its central theme of time.
“I think this drama was loved by all generations because it deals with time. Older viewers reflected on their youth, and younger viewers enjoyed imagining what it would be like to suddenly age,” she said.
The actor added that she also contemplated youth and ageing while filming the drama.
“I believe I won’t change much as I age and will continue living as I do now. I think my everyday routine of cleaning the house, watching anime when I’m bored and wondering what to eat on a daily basis will remain the same,” she said.
“Though we can’t control physical ageing, I want to keep a youthful spirit. I want to stay carefree with my friends and enjoy good food whenever I want. I hope many things remain unchanged.”