Kim Jaewon Names Lee Junho as the Primary Role Model for His Career as a Leading Actor

Rising star Kim Jaewon has revealed that his approach to leading a major television production was deeply influenced by the professional grace and leadership of his former co-star, Lee Junho. In a recent wrap-up interview for the hit TVING series Yumi’s Cells 3, Kim Jaewon looked back on his journey from a rookie to a leading man. When asked about his mindset as he transitioned into starring roles, Kim pointed to his experience working with Lee Junho on the global hit King the Land as a definitive turning point in his professional development.

The “Respect” Lesson: Observing Lee Junho on the Set of ‘King the Land’

Kim Jaewon recalled his time as a newcomer acting alongside Lee Junho with profound gratitude. “I remember breathing the same air on set with Lee Junho sunbaenim during my rookie days on King the Land,” Kim shared. “Even though he is a massive top star and a senior with far more experience, he vaguely yet clearly showed me what the proper mindset of a lead actor should be.”

Kim emphasized that Lee Junho’s leadership wasn’t just about acting talent, but about his character behind the scenes. “Even when he was exhausted, I watched him take care of the staff and his juniors first. I interpreted those actions as a deep form of respect for everyone on set,” Kim explained. He added emotionally, “As I began taking on lead roles myself, those memories came flooding back. I have this strong desire now to be an actor who remains in someone’s memory just as Lee Junho sunbaenim remained in mine.”

Synergy with Kim Go-eun and the “Soon-rok” Persona

While Lee Junho provided the blueprint for his professional conduct, Kim Jaewon also expressed immense admiration for his Yumi’s Cells 3 co-star, Kim Go-eun. He described her as a “top-tier” senior who treated him as an equal collaborator rather than a subordinate. “She didn’t just lead; she asked me, ‘What do you want to do?’ which made the project feel like a true partnership,” he noted.

Regarding his character, Shin Soon-rok, Kim Jaewon stated that he feels a 70-80% synchronization with the role. Much like Soon-rok, Kim describes himself as rational and cool-headed during work hours, but playful and “boyish” once the cameras stop rolling. He also joked about his internal “cells,” claiming his “Hunger Cell” is quite small as he isn’t greedy for food, but his “Love Cell” is massive, evidenced by his constant communication and affection for his fans.

A Legacy of Professionalism

Kim Jaewon’s remarks highlight a beautiful cycle of mentorship within the industry. By observing Lee Junho’s “leadership of respect” and Kim Go-eun’s “lovable energy,” Kim Jaewon is carving out his own path as a leading man who prioritizes the well-being of his team. As Yumi’s Cells 3 concludes its successful run, it is clear that the lessons Kim learned from the “Junho Standard” have helped him become a pillar of the new generation of K-drama stars.