So Ji-sub Gifts Gold to Kim Manager Cast and Crew: Son Na-eun Reflects

Actor Son Na-eun expressed her heartfelt gratitude towards So Ji-sub, who gifted gold to the entire cast and crew of Kim Manager. In an interview on the 29th at a cafe in Cheongdam-dong, Seoul, she reminisced about the memorable finale of the SBS drama, which aired its last episode on the 25th. The series featured So Ji-sub as Kim Manager, a regular dad who transforms into a dangerous man to reclaim his daughter, making for a compelling revenge action drama.

Son Na-eun played the role of Jung Sang-ah, a deputy at the bank where Kim Manager works, and a secret agent. She reflected on So Ji-sub's generous spirit, noting, "I didn’t realize it was gold at first; I just thought it was a thoughtful gift. I’m keeping it safe." She commended So Ji-sub for taking care of the entire production team, emphasizing the warmth and gratitude behind his actions.

The drama not only showcased a powerful narrative but also achieved impressive ratings, starting with 9.5% and peaking at 23% for the final episode, positioning it as one of the year's top hits. Son Na-eun admitted that her shift to action roles surprised many, but she felt fulfilled by their positive response. She shared,

"Director Lee Seung-yong said I would become an incredible action star. There were murmurs on set that I was doing well in action scenes, which motivated me to push harder."

Following the series’ success, So Ji-sub organized a reward vacation for the cast and crew, demonstrating his commitment to fostering a strong team dynamic. Though some members, like Maximum Ho, could not attend, those confirmed included Son Na-eun, Yoon Kyung-ho, and Joo Sang-wook. Son Na-eun expressed her excitement for the vacation, highlighting how it would allow the cast to connect better after bustling shooting schedules.

Her gratitude extended beyond tokens of appreciation; she acknowledged the challenges faced in filming, particularly with high-intensity action scenes. Reflecting on the experience, she said, "During rehearsal, things felt fine, but as we began filming, I struggled to know where to exert my strength. So Ji-sub generously advised me on timing and techniques to make each scene more impactful. I owe my successful first action sequence to the support from my seniors."

Son Na-eun's fond memories and appreciation for So Ji-sub's gestures underscore a beautiful camaraderie among the cast and crew, making their journey through Kim Manager a memorable one. Her sentiments resonate as a reminder of the warmth and connection created through shared artistry and hard work.