Who is Son Sook, Yerin Ha's Grandmother and Award-Winning Actress?
A Glimpse into the Life of Son Sook, the Grandmother of Yerin Ha
Yerin Ha, an Australian actress known for her role in Netflix's Bridgerton, has captured the attention of fans with her portrayal of Sophie Baek. While she may not be the central focus of the show, her performance has sparked curiosity about her background, especially her family ties to the world of acting. Among these connections is her maternal grandmother, Son Sook, a notable figure in Korean entertainment and politics.
A Life Shaped by War and Resilience
Son Sook was born in 1944 in Miryang, South Gyeongsang Province. Her early years were marked by the turmoil of the Korean War, which began when she was still in junior school. In a 2013 interview, she recalled the hardships of that time, including studying on makeshift blackboards set up on pine trees or rocks in the fields. She also described the relief brought by American military trucks delivering supplies like powdered milk and school materials, which were vital during the war and poverty-stricken conditions.
A Passion for Acting Emerged Early
Despite the challenges, Son Sook found solace in the arts. After moving to Seoul for high school, she discovered her love for acting after watching Eugene O'Neill's play Long Day's Journey into Night at the Namsan Drama Center. This experience would later shape her career path.
A Career Filled with Achievements
Son Sook began her acting journey while studying history at Korea University. She was cast as the female lead in a production of The Three-Rounded Hat by Alarcón y Ariza, marking the start of her acting career. Over the years, she appeared in numerous plays and television shows, earning three Baeksang Arts Awards for Best Theatre Actress. These awards are among the most prestigious in Korea, often compared to the Oscars in the West, for her performances in Active Volcano (1975), Guest (1979), and Mother (1999).
A Political Career and Controversies
Beyond her work in the arts, Son Sook ventured into politics. She briefly served as the sixth Minister of Environment in 1999 but resigned just a month into the role. The controversy stemmed from a $20,000 monetary gift she received from the National Federation of Entrepreneurs following a successful theatre performance in Moscow. The gift raised concerns due to regulations limiting officials' acceptance of such amounts. Although she provided an explanation, the situation led to allegations of bribery, ultimately resulting in her resignation.
A Legacy of Talent and Support
Despite her varied career, Son Sook has always been proud of her family, especially her granddaughter, Yerin Ha. During an appearance on the South Korean variety show You Quiz on the Block, she praised Ha's acting skills, stating, "Looks like she's a better actress than me."
A Lasting Influence
Son Sook's life story reflects resilience, dedication, and a deep passion for the arts. Her contributions to Korean theatre and her brief foray into politics have left a lasting impact. As Yerin Ha continues to build her own career in the entertainment industry, the legacy of her grandmother serves as both inspiration and a reminder of the strength and talent that runs through their family.
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