[Interview] Kim Beom: "Ghost Doctor Helped Me Find My Brighter Self"

Thoracic Surgery Resident Go Seung-tak Role
16-Year Veteran Actor
"Thankful for the Continued Popularity of 'Unstoppable High Kick'"

Kim Beom / Photo by King Kong by Starship

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Isul] Actor Kim Beom (Kim Sangbeom) has a smile that brightens those around him. That energy breathed life into 'Ghost Doctor' and gave it a unique glow, different from typical ghost or possession-themed works.

On the afternoon of the 24th, Kim Beom met with Asia Economy via video interview and said, "The pure Go Seungtak brought laughter back into me," adding, "It was a special work that made me realize I have this side as well."

In the tvN drama 'Ghost Doctor,' which ended on the 22nd, Kim Beom played Go Seungtak, the son of the hospital foundation chairman and a thoracic surgery resident. Seungtak, who can see ghosts, meets the spirit of Cha Youngmin (played by Jung Jihoon) and becomes a true doctor.

Kim Beom revealed that he was influenced by Seungtak while filming 'Ghost Doctor.' "When I first got the role, I felt it sparkled brightly. It came across as a bright, light, cartoon-like character. On set, sometimes I change to match the role, but Seungtak was much more so compared to other works."

He said, "If I were to describe Seungtak's MBTI, he has an E (extroverted) tendency, but I am completely I (introverted). The fact that he matured quickly and loves his family a lot is similar to me."

He continued, "Usually, I am a calm person, but while acting as Seungtak, I became someone who played pranks excessively. I was even asked, 'Why are you always smiling?' He is a character who helped me find my bright side," reflecting on the special meaning.

Kim Beom said he completed Seungtak's walk by referring to Disney characters. He said, "Someone posted a photo comparing mine and the character's, saying they looked similar, which surprised and delighted me." He laughed, adding, "It was the first time in a while that young viewers approached me for autographs and talked to me."

Kim Beom / Photo by King Kong by Starship

He also shared his concerns about the possession theme. Kim Beom said, "At first, seeing the 'poof' appearance and 'poof' disappearance, I worried people might laugh at it and felt embarrassed, but I realized I had to believe in it myself and acted with that belief."

Known for not using body doubles and acting himself, Kim Beom visited a university hospital and studied the role through interviews whenever possible. "I met medical professors and did some practice, but it didn't happen in just a month or two. During preparation, due to COVID-19 restrictions, I couldn't freely visit the hospital, which was disappointing."

The bright and playful Seungtak reminds one of Beom-i (Ha Sukbeom) from the sitcom 'High Kick Through the Roof' (2016). Last year, the main cast of 'High Kick' reunited on a documentary program. Kim Beom was not able to participate, which drew some regret.

"I was disappointed too. At that time, I was in the middle of filming 'Ghost Doctor.' Even after the first episode aired, I was still filming. Jung Ilwoo, who I am still close with, kept contacting me. I heard everyone wanted to see me. I wanted to see them too, so it was unfortunate. Watching 'High Kick' being reproduced online on YouTube and other platforms felt heartwarming. I'm grateful that many people still like it."

Kim Beom / Photo by King Kong by Starship

Kim Beom debuted in 2006 through KBS's 'Survival Star Audition' and has become a 16-year veteran actor this year. He said, "By chance, I have consecutively done legal dramas, medical dramas, and fantasy works, but I want to meet different characters and genres," adding, "I will challenge new genres anytime."

"I have experienced slumps during my more than 10 years of acting. After a project ends, I still wonder how best to spend that time. As an actor, I don't have a particular way to relieve stress. I am continuously trying to find that method."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.