Jin Young Explores Emotion and Transformation in "Summer Vacation"

Jin Young recently shared his insights regarding his role in the anticipated drama "Summer Vacation”.

This teen romance drama spotlights Cho Yi Hyun as Kim Ha Yeon, an ordinary high school girl who experiences something extraordinary during her summer vacation, which challenges her perception of reality. Jin Young stars as Jo Yu Gyeom, a boy from a privileged background who is equally relatable.

Jo Yu Gyeom is the heir of Upo Village’s landowner and alongside his good looks and impressive swimming abilities, he feels trapped by the traditional expectations that surround him. Jin Young’s connection to his character runs deep. He expressed, "When I first read the script, it took me back to those dreamy summer days filled with nostalgia and growing pains.” The portrayal deals with deep themes of self-discovery and the transformation that can occur through human connection.

Character Insight

Describing the complexities of playing Jo Yu Gyeom, Jin Young stated, "Although his life appears glamorous, he feels a sense of stagnation." He was particularly drawn to the character's evolution, noting how meeting Kim Ha Yeon ignites a spark of curiosity in him about the future. Jin Young states, “I aimed to convey that gradual shift in a subtle manner, highlighting the moments where light begins to seep through his seemingly mundane life.”

Artistic Development

Jin Young invested significant effort into revealing the nuanced psyche of Jo Yu Gyeom. He mentioned how his approach in the initial scenes involved minimal expressions, in order to portray the character's current emotional state. “It was important to me that every minor detail—like his gaze or the timing of his reactions—reflects his inner emptiness,” he explained. “The smallest transformation in his demeanor as he begins to bond with Kim Ha Yeon was a pivotal point I focused on.”

Swimming Technique and Character Connection

A fascinating aspect of his character is that Jo Yu Gyeom is a “swimming prodigy”—a challenge for Jin Young, who confessed to not being particularly skilled in swimming. “Though I initially felt overwhelmed, I immersed myself in swimming scenes because for Jo Yu Gyeom, it symbolizes not just a sport, but a mental escape from his static life.” He humorously reflected, “After filming, I feel like I’ve done all the swimming I’ll ever need to do!”

On-Screen Chemistry

Discussing his on-screen partnership with Cho Yi Hyun, Jin Young noted how her portrayal brings a bright and honest charm to Kim Ha Yeon. "She added layers to the role, allowing our characters’ chemistry to emerge organically,” he remarked. He expressed gratitude for her talent, which supported the development of Jo Yu Gyeom's newfound interest in life and love.

Complicated Relationships

The drama also navigates a complicated love triangle with the character Sung Sae Ryung, played by Hong Ye Ji. Jin Young elaborated, “While he shares history with Sae Ryung, there are layers of guilt and expectation that complicate their bond. Balancing the burdened side of Jo Yu Gyeom alongside his more spirited interactions with Kim Ha Yeon was essential.”

Reflecting on the Journey

Recalling his journey during filming, Jin Young shared, “Every moment spent on set, from scenery to interactions remain etched in my memory. Much like Jo Yu Gyeom's unique summer, this production has left an imprint on my heart.” He hopes that audiences will relate to these characters grappling with their own struggles and watch them evolve. "Summer Vacation resonates with the challenges of youth, and I wish for it to linger in viewers’ minds long after watching,” he concluded.

"Summer Vacation" is set to premiere on October 26.

In the meantime, fans can catch Jin Young in the special "Love in the Moonlight: Redrawn" on Viki.

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