Former Top Actor Forced To Live And Work At Nightclub In Shocking Conditions

For 30 years, actor Kang Cheol, once a familiar face on television for his roles in Love and War, has been working in a nightclub to make ends meet. Despite his acting background, the need to survive has led him to take on various menial tasks in a Seoul nightspot.

Recently featured on the MBN documentary program Exclusive World, Kang opened up about his life behind the scenes. Known for playing unfaithful husbands in the popular drama, Kang humorously refers to himself as “the first affair actor among talents.”

He recalls being recognized by strangers in markets and streets, often being called “the affair actor” or “the actor from Love and War.”

Currently, Kang’s daily life involves serving snacks and drinks to customers, a far cry from the glamorous world of acting.

I’ve been working here for 30 years, doing everything from serving beer to preparing snacks. Making a living is crucial, even for an actor, so I’ve had to find other ways to support myself.

— Kang Cheol

But what shocked viewers the most were Kang’s living quarters. Instead of going home after his shifts, Kang stays in a small storeroom at the club. His workload is so demanding that he finds it more convenient to live on-site.

Meanwhile, his wife expressed her frustration over their financial struggles, saying she has shouldered the burden of managing their household finances due to Kang’s failed ventures.

Despite the hardships, Kang remains attached to the nightclub. “I have too many regrets to quit now,” he admitted. “If we wait a little longer, I hope to provide a better life for my family.“