Despite Netflix success, Chae Seo An opened up about juggling multiple gig jobs—even just a month ago.

Actress Chae Seo An, who portrayed Yeong Ran (better known as Hak’s Wife) in the hit Netflix K-drama When Life Gives You Tangerines, has surprised fans with her candid revelation about the realities of life after filming. In a recent interview with Harper’s BAZAAR Korea, Chae shared that despite the drama’s global popularity, she found herself working seven part-time jobs after the project wrapped up.

“I worked at a rice cake factory, a cookie factory, an electronics factory, a research facility under a major company, in card terminal manufacturing, door lock production, and assembling PVC/electronic outlets,”
— Chae Seo An

She even revealed her most recent job was in CCTV quality control, a role she quit just a month ago. Chae explained that this chapter came during a period of transition with her former agency, and at the time, a friend suggested trying gig work to stay afloat.

Despite her challenges, Chae recounted how landing the role in “When Life Gives You Tangerines” felt like a dream:

“It’s such a beautiful project. I had a feeling it would do well, but since my role wasn’t very big, I didn’t expect to be so loved as ‘Hak’s Wife.’ My family was really happy.”
— Chae Seo An

Her humble outlook and honest depiction of the behind-the-scenes struggle of working actors resonated deeply with fans, many of whom were shocked to hear that someone part of such a well-received show had to hustle so hard off-screen.

A Rising Star:

Chae Seo An debuted in 2021 through KBS2’s Police University and has since appeared in notable productions like The Witch: Part 2, Moonshine, and Pale Moon. While her screen time in When Life Gives You Tangerines was modest, her performance has attracted the attention of viewers and casting agents alike.

Fans are now rooting for Chae to land bigger roles, hoping her breakout moment comes soon—and this time, without the need for backup factory jobs.