90-Year-Old Actor Shin Gu Opens Up About Health Challenges Ahead of ‘French Safe’ Premiere

[TV Report] Veteran actor Shin Goo candidly discussed his health condition at a recent press event.

On February 10th, Shin Goo attended the press conference for the play “French Vault: Who Will Scale the North Wall?” (hereafter “French Vault”) at NOL Seogyeong Square in Seoul’s Jongno district. The star-studded event featured a lineup including Seong Ji-roo, Jang Hyun-seong, Jeong Young-joo, Jang Young-nam, Choi Young-jun, Joo Jong-hyuk, Kim Seul-gi, Geum Sae-rok, Jo Dal-hwan, Ahn Du-ho, and director Jang Jin.

Director Jang revealed that Shin Goo was the inspiration behind “French Vault,” expressing his long-held desire to work with the legendary actor. Most cast members echoed this sentiment, citing Shin Goo’s involvement as a key factor in their decision to join the production.

Reflecting on his participation, Shin Goo admitted, “I may have jumped in too quickly. Once rehearsals began, I realized there were aspects I found challenging. Interpreting the work was difficult, and I questioned whether I had been overly ambitious at my age.” However, he quickly added, “As long as I’m alive, I should continue doing what I’ve always done. Though it’s not easy, I’m determined to give it my all.”

At 90 years old, Shin Goo holds the distinction of being South Korea’s oldest active actor. Given the demanding nature of theater performances, concerns about his health have naturally arisen.Addressing these concerns, Shin Goo candidly shared, “My body isn’t what it used to be. With age, I’m experiencing various health issues.” He poignantly added, “With the passing of Lee Soon-jae, whom I looked up to as a mentor, I no longer have anyone senior to guide me. Nevertheless, I’m committed to overcoming these challenges and ensuring I don’t let down the production.”

In “French Vault,” Shin Goo takes on the role of a blind character alongside co-star Seong Ji-roo.

The play’s intriguing premise revolves around a vault that can only be opened at midnight when all lights are extinguished. This setup brings together a diverse cast of characters, each with their own motives and backstories, in a bank’s underground chamber. The production marks the highly anticipated return of director Jang Jin to the theater scene after a decade, following his recent success with Netflix’s “Crime Scene Zero” last September.

“French Vault” is set to run from March 7 to May 31 at the NOL Seogyeong Square in Seoul’s theater district, Daehak-ro.

Reporter: Yoon Hee-jung (yhj@tvreport.co.kr) / Photo: TV Report DB