Im Ji Yeon on why she chose to star in The Tale of Lady Ok

Im Ji Yeon reveals why she chose to play the role of slave Gu Deok in The Tale of Lady Ok. 

The Tale of Lady Ok tells the story of Ok Tae Young (Im Ji Yeon), a woman whose name, status, and husband are all fake. After leaving behind a life of enslavement, where she endured extreme humiliation, she embarks on a life of deception in the hopes of living peacefully and with dignity. 

In the K-drama, Im Ji Yeon plays the role of the fake Ok Tae Yeong, a character who transforms from a runaway slave to a noblewoman. Having endured harsh abuse and scorn while living a lowly life, she finally seizes the opportunity to live the life she had always yearned for — a life where she could "grow old gracefully and die in peace." Im Ji Yeon's performance is highly anticipated as she portrays a woman who, after escaping from her status as a slave, that kept her talents hidden, uses her abilities to achieve something grand, within the guise of her fake identity.

"I've always had a curiosity and thirst for the historical drama genre," said Im Ji Yeon. She added, "I felt that the growth arc of the female character was beautifully woven into both the melodrama and genre elements. I was also curious to see how I would portray Ok Tae Young, who is one person yet also two at the same time. This curiosity led her to choose The Tale of Lady Ok.

Regarding the fake Ok Tae Im Ji Yeon shared, "I felt that she was a character who transcended an era where positions and roles were strictly defined by social status. Initially, I was curious about Gu Deok Yi living as Ok Tae Young, but the more I acted, the more I was captivated by her wisdom and warmth. This might be the first time I've portrayed a character I aspire to be like," she said, expressing her deep affection for the role.

Portraying the complex and multifaceted story of the slave Goo Deok Yi and the fake Ok Tae Young was undoubtedly a challenge. However, Im Ji Yeon revealed, "I tried not to draw a distinction between Gu Deok Yi and the fake Ok Tae Young. Ok Tae Young is both Deok Yi and Tae Young. While Deok Yi is a slave who strives to break from her fate, Tae Young is also a person who finds a new dream despite difficult circumstances. The only difference is their environment and status."

Lastly, Im Ji Yeon commented, "The Tale of Lady Ok tells the fierce survival story of a woman who, though forced to steal another's life, did her utmost for her true self and the person who gifted her that life," adding, "Ultimately, isn't the goal Gu Deok Yi seeks, as Tae Young, to live an independent life?" 

The Tale of Lady Ok will premiere on November 30. The K-drama will be available to stream on Netflix. 

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