Kim Young-in’s Journey: From Construction Worker to Beloved Actor – Discover His Inspiring Story!

[EPN Enpinau Reporter Go Nari] On the 15th, MBN’s Special World aired a segment in which actor Kim Young-in shared recent updates and family stories, drawing strong viewer interest.

Kim said he began pursuing acting in his mid-30s. He recounted that he first stumbled into the craft while working on a construction site in Kuwait, and when a broadcaster later offered him a role, he launched his acting career in earnest.

He drew widespread attention for his portrayal of Shim Young in the popular series Yain Sidae (often translated as The Rustic Era), delivering the memorable line, “I can’t believe I’m a eunuch,” which became a major talking point. That scene led to commercials and fan meetings, and he said he was gratified to be remembered for the character.

He also opened up about his daily life. Kim said he rises early to tend his garden and has balanced farming and acting for more than 10 years.

He showed tenderness by cooking traditional beef soup for his 94-year-old mother, but admitted he doesn’t visit her often because of family conflicts. He said he wanted his mother to live with him, but communication problems with a younger sibling made that difficult.

Kim also revealed personal struggles. After marital strife and financial hardship, he opted for jolhon—a Korean form of separation while remaining legally married—and confessed he endured a painful period following business failures and fraud. He added that he still carries remorse and accepts responsibility for his mistakes.

He has since started a new chapter running an unmanned café, and he showed how photos and mementos from fans decorate a corner of the shop.

Despite a life of ups and downs, Kim has retained his pride as an actor and a deep affection for his family, quietly moving forward in a way that has resonated with many.

Photos = MBN’s Special World, SBS’s Yain Sidae