Actor Choi Woo Shik Reveals How He Was Able To Heal From The Pressure Of Taking On Roles After “Parasite”

Actor Choi Woo Shik recently participated in a gorgeous pictorial and interview with Cosmopolitan Korea where he mentioned the pressure he faced following his successful role in the film Parasite. 

The incredible film Parasite made history back in 2020 with its global success and several awards, including four major awards at the 92nd Academy Awards.

Of course with these great results comes great pressure to do well. Choi Woo Shook expressed the burden he feels to live up to the high expectations following the film’s achievements.

Q: The previous work ‘Parasite’ is so well done, I (Cosmopolitan Korea interviewer) think the burden on the next work will be a lot. At that time, didn’t you feel the burden of having to surpass that performance or yourself?

It would be a lie to say no. It was such a great experience, and wouldn’t both the actors and staff all hope to find a project that can go beyond that?

— Choi Woo Shik

Furthermore, Choi Woo Shik revealed how filming for Summer Vacation and Youn’s Stay was a great healing source for him.

From many of the works I took part in, like the two movies and variety television programs like ‘Summer Vacation’ and ‘Youn’s Stay,’ I healed a lot. I don’t think I would have been able to choose any works, had I only been thinking about the outcomes…. Like if I kept asking, ‘I was in an Academy-winning movie, so what could I possibly take on next to do better and get even more praise?’ I would not have been able to choose anything. I would have felt lost. But I try to find joy in the process and enjoy whatever I do. That way, I don’t feel as much pressure

— Choi Woo Shik

Despite feeling some pressure towards taking on new roles, Choi Woo Shik stated that he truly enjoyed working on his two most recent projects The Policeman’s Lineage and Wonderland.

In ‘The Policeman’s Lineage,’ I was able to experience stronger characters that I hadn’t been able to express before. In ‘Wonderland,’ I made a lot of good memories working again with actors that I really like. Apart from the results, I can say with confidence that I as an actor genuinely enjoyed the process of partaking in these two projects. So please look forward to it.

— Choi Woo Shik