Yoo Hae-jin on the secret to ad-libs: 'It is manners to propose to co-stars first'

Actor Yoo Hae-jin has opened up about his approach to spontaneous moments on set and his 25-year journey as an actor.

'Thinking only of yourself is not polite'... The promise behind ad-libs

Yoo referenced famous ad-lib scenes familiar to audiences, such as the soy sauce and vinegar bottle scene in the film 'Tazza: The High Rollers' or the coin scene in 'Confidential Assignment.' In the video, Yoo revealed that these scenes were not perfectly scripted but were actually ad-libs. However, he established clear standards for spontaneity on set.

"Even though they are called ad-libs, I might read them a few days prior or make some notes and think, 'How about this?' Then I make a proposal," Yoo explained. While spontaneous acting does occur, he emphasized, "If you suddenly decide you have a good idea and just do it, it is not polite to your co-star." He added that he first proposes ideas to his fellow actors during the rehearsal stage and confirms them with the director, only executing them on set when he is certain "that it seems like a very good idea." He also noted that there are cases where he can freely try new ideas after the 'OK' sign has been given.

Paju embankments and Jeju ranches: Solitary practice to channel energy

Having participated in approximately 60 works over 25 years, Yoo revealed that he seeks out specific environments for moments requiring intense theatrical energy. He expressed the difficulty of practicing, saying, "There are times when I need acting that requires using a lot of energy, but you can't just suddenly shout loudly in your neighborhood." He explained that it is difficult to make noise even at home due to being mindful of neighbors.

To achieve this, Yoo visited secluded embankment roads in Paju, Gyeonggi Province, or spent time at large ranches on Jeju Island. He shared, "I have to deliver lines like a madman, but if I mumble too much, it won't be conveyed. I spent quite a lot of time because I had to convey the feeling of 'how can someone act so wildly?'" This effort suggests his process goes beyond simply memorizing lines to increasing the power of emotional delivery.

'If you're going to do it, do it with everything you have'... A father's recognition

He also recalled facing opposition from his parents when he was dreaming of becoming an actor. Yoo said that due to the era's atmosphere, which focused on 'flower boy' types, and the economic difficulties of the profession, his parents and friends had great concerns. He noted that even during his military service, his parents repeatedly questioned his career path. Every time he went on military leave, his parents asked what he would do, but Yoo did not waver in his intention to become an actor.

Yoo said he could never forget the words his father spoke when he expressed his firm determination to continue acting during his final leave. At the time, his father replied, "It seems your mind is very firm, so if you're going to do it, then do it really hard and do well." Yoo expressed gratitude, saying the remark made him feel recognized. He also looked back on his early life through an anecdote where he was offered work based on his sincerity and the connections he made while struggling during his days with a theater troupe. At that time, a gentleman approached Yoo at a bakery and proposed a part-time job assembling non-electronic components; Yoo then prepared for his path as an actor by renting a room and working for a month with his colleague Yoo Seung-yong.

A life that seeps in: 'Nevertheless'

The conversation naturally led to generational differences and longing for his parents. Yoo confessed that he feels the habits and ways of speaking of his parents, which he did not understand when he was young, are "seeping into" him as time passes. He mentioned, "One day, I find myself mimicking my father's actions and doing exactly the same," noting that his parents' lives have naturally integrated into his own. While he did not understand his parents' actions of preparing meals or suggesting they go see the autumn leaves when he was young, those habits have become part of him over time.

Finally, Yoo concluded the conversation by choosing "nevertheless" as his favorite phrase.