by Hazel Jung, May 21, 2023
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Uhm Jung Hwa, who is causing a sensation with the drama Doctor Cha, appeared on the JTBC program 'Newsroom' on the 20th.

Doctor Cha is not only recording impressive ratings of up to 18.0% (based on nationwide paid households) but also dominating the popularity charts, creating a Cha Jung Sook craze.

Amidst this popularity, Uhm Jung Hwa stated, "I receive a lot of greetings from people around me who say they are enjoying the drama. Since the broadcast started, I'm curious about the reactions, so I wake up every Saturday and Sunday at dawn. I spend the whole day thinking, 'Why isn't it 9 o'clock yet?' and seeing these reactions makes me extremely grateful. I'm happy," expressing her excitement.

When asked about the secret to its popularity, Uhm Jung Hwa replied, "People seem curious about Cha Jung Sook's growth and cheer for her, which makes them watch the drama together. Aren't there many Cha Jung Sooks in the world? I feel like they empathize and watch it with a sense of sharing, laughing, and crying together."

She also revealed that her decision to join Doctor Cha was based on this 'empathy.' She explained, "As I grew older, I felt that the number of work offers decreased, but when I read Doctor Cha, I could relate to it a lot. It was lucky for me, and it became a source of energy for me."

Was there any aspect of Cha Jung Sook that she wanted to resemble while portraying the character? Uhm Jung Hwa said, "I want to resemble her audacity. I'm blood type A, so I tend to hold back when I want to do something, but Cha Jung Sook is not hesitant. Also, there are times when throwing a soda can without making people feel bad, and I want to resemble that part."

Finally, when asked if she is satisfied with Cha Jung Sook's final choice, Uhm Jung Hwa answered, "I'm completely satisfied," giving a slight spoiler about the ending of Doctor Cha and raising expectations.

Source