Why Ko Jun launched a YouTube channel despite opposition

Actor Ko Jun / Courtesy of Soma Culture

Actor Ko Jun, known for his presence in films and dramas, has stepped into a new role off camera by launching a YouTube channel called “Peeping,” which he describes as a “self-sustaining platform for actors.” While the name implies “peeking at the world,” Ko says the aim is less about curiosity and more about solidarity.

In a recent interview, Ko introduced himself as “a person who graduated from a film department and loves movies deeply,” sharing stories from his life and his philosophy on acting.

Ko once ran an acting academy with more than 150 students, discovering and nurturing aspiring actors, some of whom went on to find fame. But disputes and misunderstandings that arose during his absence from filming left him disillusioned, eventually leading to the academy’s closure. Now, he has gathered actors again — this time online — to give them a stage for their talents.

“People told me to stop, to mind my own business,” Ko said. “But I think I’m destined to help others. I just can’t walk away.”

Recalling his early years, when he received no help while struggling to break into the industry, Ko said working on post-production for “Peeping” made him emotional. “Watching the directors and actors, I thought, ‘It’s great they have someone like me as a senior.’ I almost teared up.”

Actor Ko Jun / Captured from his Instagram

Ko credited director Kang Hyung-chul of “Tazza: The Hidden Card” as a turning point in his career. Without an agency at the time, he auditioned five times before winning the role, which brought him recognition.

Although “Peeping” launched just four months ago, it has already drawn over 10,000 views per video on average and even attracted product placement offers. “It’s still closer to charity work,” Ko said with a laugh. “But I’m grateful people see the channel positively.”

Ko defines an actor as an “emotional representative,” someone who lives another person’s life on screen and conveys their emotions. He approaches every role with precision, tracking a character’s expressions and tone of voice back to their possible traumas. “Every role is someone who exists in this world. I believe acting should help them heal and find strength,” he said.

For Ko, building a role means experiencing both the good and bad sides of life. He studies the habits and rhythms of people in the professions he portrays, whether joining stakeouts with police officers or observing arrests to capture a suspect’s behavior.

His commitment traces back to his youth. Once a socially withdrawn boy who dreamed of becoming a priest after falling in love with the sound of a pipe organ, he abandoned the path just before entering a monastery but carried forward a desire to have a positive influence. “If I lose that influence, I’ll quit tomorrow. Acting is just a tool, not the goal,” he said.

Ko Jun launches a YouTube channel. Courtesy of Soma Culture

Ko plans to use “Peeping” to discover not only actors but also new directors and writers, prioritizing talented but overlooked individuals over established stars.

“Some people say it’s a waste for me, that I should stop immediately. But I believe you should take any stage you can. I’ve performed in nightclubs, created a traveling troupe in my 20s and toured nationwide. I still dream of being a movie actor, but now I don’t insist on films alone. If the work is good, I’ll do it anywhere.”

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, a sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI and edited by The Korea Times.