Ha Ji-won turns idol-stage courage into a K-Forum lesson

From YouTube Rookie to Idol Challenges... Ha Ji-won's Endless Transformations

Actress Ha Ji-won has identified a "spirit of challenge" as the driving force behind the growth of K-content.

Ha Ji-won attended the "2026 K-Forum" held at the Conrad Seoul Grand Ballroom in Yeouido, Seoul, on the 9th, where she spoke personally about her recent activities. "Recently, through my YouTube channel 'Class of '26 Ji-won,' I even played a college freshman, and I have challenged myself as an idol on music broadcast stages," she stated. Confessing the difficulties of jumping into unfamiliar territories, she added that she realized there are people who support that courage when one gives their sincere best.

Reunion with Director Lee Jae-kyu... "People are always at the center of K-content"

During the event, Ha Ji-won reflected on the people and works that served as turning points in her acting career.

Mentioning her reunion with Director Lee Jae-kyu, whom she worked with on the drama "Damo," Ha Ji-won said, "It is especially meaningful to meet Director Lee Jae-kyu again, the man behind 'Damo,' the work that helped me grow as an actress."

Amidst a forum filled with diverse discussions on technology, industry, and AI, Ha Ji-won pointed out the unchanging core value. "At today's K-Forum, we discuss the present and future of K, including history, culture, industry, technology, and even AI, but at the center of it all, there are always people," she asserted.

Ha Ji-won continued, "I look forward to the next stories you create becoming the future of K-content that moves the world once again. As both an actress and a creator, I will continue to be part of this journey to deliver good stories and sincerity."

Meanwhile, the "2026 K-Forum," co-hosted by Ilgan Sports and Economist, is celebrating its fourth year. The forum was established to highlight the achievements of K-content and K-brands gaining attention on the global stage and to explore future directions.