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On the November 3, 2025 broadcast of the Channel A Korean talk show “My Friend’s Talkumentary 4-Person Dining Table,” veteran actor and director Park JoongHoon shared a remarkable behind-the-scenes story. He invited his closest friends, including actor Kim MinJoon and former basketball star Heo Jae, to reminisce and reveal the dramatic casting process for his directorial debut film, “Top Star.”
A Reunion of Long-Time Celebrity Friends
The episode highlighted the deep bonds of celebrity friends, bringing together Park JoongHoon and his companions. Heo Jae, a friend of 40 years from their school days, and Kim MinJoon, a close colleague for 13 years, joined him for an intimate conversation. The warm atmosphere set the stage for personal revelations, particularly the untold story of how Kim MinJoon was cast in Park JoongHoon’s film, a pivotal moment that tested their actor friendship.
The “Top Star” Casting Story Unveiled
The main focus of the discussion was the challenging journey of casting for the movie “Top Star.” Park JoongHoon, in his capacity as the director, was determined to have Kim MinJoon in a leading role. However, the path to securing him was far from smooth, revealing a period of uncertainty in Kim MinJoon’s career and the depth of Park JoongHoon’s belief in him.
Kim MinJoon’s Initial Rejection
When Park JoongHoon first offered the role, Kim MinJoon surprisingly turned it down. At the time, the actor was seriously contemplating quitting his acting career altogether. He confessed on the show that he felt he would be a “detriment” to the project and lacked the confidence to take on such a significant part. This rejection was a major hurdle for the first-time director who had envisioned his friend in the film.
A Director’s Pursuit and a Powerful Ultimatum
Undeterred, Park JoongHoon pursued Kim MinJoon for an entire month, refusing to take no for an answer. The turning point came during a final, tense conversation. Frustrated but resolute, Park JoongHoon delivered a powerful ultimatum that would change the course of Kim MinJoon’s career. He told him, “Then you can’t be an actor until the day you die.” This stark and impactful statement, much like some of the most touching and motivating quotes heard in counseling shows, forced Kim MinJoon to reconsider his decision. The director’s unwavering faith ultimately convinced him to accept the role and continue his acting journey.
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