Key Takeaways:
- The global success of South Korean entertainment has opened doors for South Korean performers in Hollywood.
- Talent agencies are helping South Korean actors navigate American casting and overcome challenges such as language barriers and stereotypes.
- South Korean actors are finding opportunities in Hollywood due to the increasing demand for diverse and authentic representation.
- The American and Korean entertainment industries have different standards and practices, requiring actors to adapt to new auditioning and acting techniques.
- Age and beauty standards in South Korea can be limiting for actors, leading some to pursue opportunities in Hollywood.
Introduction to the Challenges
The South Korean entertainment industry has experienced significant growth in recent years, with the global success of shows like "Parasite," "Minari," and "Squid Game." However, for many South Korean actors, breaking into the Hollywood scene can be a daunting task. Actor Amy Baik’s experience is a prime example of the challenges faced by South Korean actors. When she was cast in a commercial, she was later cut from the final product due to her lack of double eyelids, a prized facial feature in South Korean beauty standards. This experience led her to reconsider her career options and explore opportunities in Hollywood.
Bridging the Gap
Talent agencies like Upstage Entertainment are working to bridge the gap between South Korean actors and the Hollywood industry. Co-founder Alison Dumbell notes that there is a growing demand for characters that are specifically Korean, rather than generic "East Asian" roles. However, stereotypes still persist, and Dumbell often finds herself advising actors to avoid roles that perpetuate these stereotypes. The agency is working to help actors navigate the differences between the American and Korean entertainment industries, including varying standards for auditioning and acting techniques.
Navigating the Industry
For South Korean actors without connections or experience in the American industry, navigating the system can be overwhelming. Julia Kim, a Korean American casting director, often uses social media to find new talent, but for actors without major agency backing, finding the right contacts can be difficult. The American and Korean industries operate differently, and U.S. casting information rarely reaches those outside established networks. Actors must also contend with technical standards, such as the requirement for clean white backgrounds in American audition tapes, and differing headshot styles. Additionally, language and accent can be significant barriers, with many actors struggling to master English and adopt a more natural intonation.
Overcoming Language and Accent Barriers
Actor Shin Ju-hwan, who played a masked soldier in "Squid Game," has taken an intensive approach to learning English, transcribing over 30,000 words and expressions from the internet. He has also worked with a coach to improve his line delivery and intonation. However, consultants are not pushing actors to erase their identity or adopt a perfect American accent. Instead, they emphasize the importance of authenticity and nuance. Devon Overman, a co-founder of Upstage, notes that having an accent can be an asset, and that the goal is to help actors feel more comfortable and confident in their own skin.
Push Factors
For many South Korean actors, the decision to pursue opportunities in Hollywood is driven by push factors, such as age discrimination and limited opportunities in the Korean market. Actor Misun Youm notes that in South Korea, "30 isn’t considered young," and that there are limitations on finding an agency or auditioning for roles. Shin Ju-hwan, who is in his 40s, was given a chance to audition for a 20-something character in an international production, highlighting the differences in age perception between the two industries.
A Shift in the Industry
Actors like Amy Baik and Shin Ju-hwan are seeing a shift in the industry, with more opportunities for authentic and diverse representation. Baik, who landed a minor role in the Netflix series "XO, Kitty," notes that her features are now seen as assets abroad, and that she has been able to break free from the "cute" image that was limiting her in South Korea. Shin hopes to play a villain in American productions and sees a shift towards greater acceptance of Korean actors in Hollywood. "There was a time when it seemed like you had to roll your R’s and act like an American… But now it feels like you can be yourself — be Korean if you’re Korean," he said. As the industry continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see more South Korean actors succeeding in Hollywood, and bringing their unique perspectives and talents to the screen.
