Actor Ryoo Soo-yeong, who plays a caring husband in the KBS Monday-Tuesday miniseries "18 vs. 29", has drawn the attention of many female viewers recently for his charismatic yet cute portrayal. Although the popularity of the drama is ascribed largely to the charming acting of its lead actress Park Seon-young, the female audience credits Ryoo with perfectly portraying a husband doing his utmost to mend his relationship with his wife.
But very few know that Ryoo landed this role after many twists and turns. Although he was the first actor sought for the role when the drama was still in its initial stages of production, he had to square off with such formidable rivals as Kim Min-jong and Shin Hyun-jun. Ryoo was notified that he had been chosen for the role just two days before shooting started.
"In fact, I had almost given up, and was very stressed out. My self-esteem was hurt significantly, but when the production team told me that I was selected for the role, I decided from then on never to give up or let others beat me in casting competitions", said Ryoo. Ryoo was considered a second-rate actor for quite a long time. Many times he was pigeonholed into the role of the guy who fights with another guy over a woman. His new role in "18 vs. 29" presented him with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to try his skills at portraying a sassy and vibrant character.
"I want to become a step closer to the audience through this role. My ardent wish is to hear that I am good not only at sinister roles but at other roles as well", said Ryoo.
English ) 
