Kang Ye Won made her emotional debut on the reality show 'I Have to Act' on March 3, 2025, airing on tvN STORY. The actress opened up about her struggles and fears, igniting deep conversations about mental health and the pressures of public scrutiny.
During the show, Kang Ye Won shared, "I cried every day reading malicious comments. I am sensitive to hurtful words. The stress was overwhelming, and I kept thinking about how long I need to live like this." Her candidness about the toll of negativity on her mental well-being showcased her vulnerability and honesty.
Despite these challenges, Ye Won stepped out of her comfort zone to meet potential partners, reflecting her desire for companionship. On her first match with Kim Sang-hoon, she noted, "I get satisfaction watching others find happiness, as I have been scared of love for so long." This detail highlighted her struggles with romantic connections, rooted partly in her past experiences.
The initial meeting between Kang Ye Won and Kim Sang-hoon gave viewers moments of genuine connection. He greeted her with, "You are more beautiful than you appear on screen. Your face is really small," instantly causing her to blush. Kang responded, jokingly downplaying the compliment, saying, "I guess I don’t photograph well," establishing a friendly rapport between them.
Soon thereafter, they exchanged playful banter, each initially feeling the nervousness of the date. Kim candidly admitted post-date, "I was dazed for 5 minutes; I didn’t expect her to be this beautiful," reinforcing the chemistry growing between them.
Yet, beneath her light conversations, Kang Ye Won harbored more serious thoughts. She poignantly expressed, "I think about my father every night. What if he passes away?" These reflections prompted her to seek companionship, fearing for her parents' health highlighted her deep familial ties and emotional struggles.
Kang Ye Won disclosed her fears of love stemming from protective instincts sharpened by life experiences. "I guess it’s my fate not to get married. I’m too scared and have no guts," she admitted, showcasing how far she's come to embrace vulnerability and authenticity.
The episode demonstrated Kang Ye Won's first steps toward emotional openness and hinted at her potential character growth throughout the season. By sharing her fears and critiques of her personal life, she connected with viewers not just as an actress but as someone facing relatable struggles.
Fans expressed their support for Kang Ye Won, praising her vulnerability and openness on social media, indicating the power of her words. The significance of having mental health discussions, particularly how they relate to artists and performers, has never been more evident than during this episode.
Overall, Kang Ye Won's appearance on 'I Have to Act' was not solely about dating; it showcased her corrosion under public pressure, her desire for genuine connection, and the weight she feels from her past. The charismatic exchanges between her and Kim Sang-hoon opened up pathways for discussions on relationships, mental health, and the importance of supportive networks during tough times.
With the show set to continue airing every Monday at 8 PM, viewers eagerly await more interactions between Kang Ye Won and potential partners as she tackles her emotional challenges head-on, offering important representation and conversations around mental well-being.