Introduction

Korean actress Song Hye Kyo, known for her talent and stunning performances, recently graced the popular talk show *You Quiz On The Block*. This marked her first appearance on a variety show in 23 years, and the 43-year-old star didn’t hold back as she opened up about the challenges she has faced throughout her impressive nearly three-decade career.

Current Work and Self-Criticism

Currently starring in the upcoming horror film *Dark Nuns*, Hye Kyo revealed her intense self-criticism. "I am very hard on myself," she admitted, explaining that watching her own performances often leads her to think, "This is boring to me; the viewers must be very bored too." Despite starting her acting journey at the young age of 15, she has struggled to feel confident in her abilities even into her 20s and 30s. "You don’t have a range of expressions," she would tell herself, showcasing her relentless pursuit of perfection and artistic integrity.

Dealing with Malicious Rumors

Hye Kyo also touched on the relentless rumors that surrounded her throughout her career. "After a long time in the industry, I started to hear many rumors without even realizing it," she said, reflecting on how interviews or casual outings often bring up gossip instead of her craft. "I’ve had so many bad things said about me that I’m okay with it now—it's part of the job," she said, although she noted that it is particularly upsetting when her family is affected by the rumors.

Coping with Negativity and Self-Love

During the interview, host Jo Seho asked how she coped with the negativity. Hye Kyo credited her resilience to screenwriter Noh Hee Kyung's sage advice: “You have to first love yourself in order to share love with the people around you.” However, Hye Kyo admitted that understanding and practicing self-love was no easy task.

Daily Practice of Gratitude

Taking Noh Hee Kyung's words to heart, Hye Kyo began a daily practice of self-reflection, waking up each day considering how she would live it, followed by writing down ten things she was grateful for each night. This ritual continued for five years until she recently decided to stop. On her first day without the practice, she struggled to identify a single thing to be grateful for, feeling disheartened.

Finding Joy in Small Things

However, Noh Hee Kyung helped shift her perspective, encouraging her to appreciate the small joys in life—like lovely weather, enjoyable meals, and her beloved dog’s health. “When I began to appreciate these little things, I realized just how many there truly were,” Hye Kyo reflected.

Conclusion

As she continues to navigate the turbulent waters of fame and its accompanying scrutiny, Song Hye Kyo stands as a testament to the power of self-acceptance and gratitude. Her journey not only highlights the importance of mental fortitude in the face of criticism but also serves as an inspiration to others facing similar challenges in their own lives. Stay tuned for more insights from this remarkable actress as she continues her journey both on and off the screen!