Actor Kim Woo Bin confessed that senior star Hong Suk Chun gave him a push for his acting career for the first time during a talk show, Hong Suk Chun's Jewel Box, on YouTube.

The June 10 episode, titled "Kim Woo Bin, the Precious Gem of Top Gay," featured the popular actor reminiscing about his early modeling days and the fateful encounter that would shape his career.

"I first met [Hong] when I was 20 years old and working as a model," Kim said. "He was the first person to tell me, 'You should become an actor.'

Until then, I had never considered acting, but that conversation made me think about it for the first time."

Hong, who launched the Jewel Box series in November 2023, introduced Kim with warmth and pride. "This gem is one I raised back in the day," he said. Recalling their first meeting, Hong added, "I walked up to him and started talking.

Even up close, his visuals were striking. At the time, actors with dinosaur-like features were gaining popularity, so I kept encouraging him to pursue acting."

The show, which regularly features male celebrities in relaxed interviews, has previously hosted stars such as Byeon Woo-seok, Lee Jae-wook, Hwang In-yeob, Choo Young-woo, and Wi Ha-joon.

Fans were quick to react to Kim Woo Bin's guest spot, noting the genuine chemistry between the two and their long-standing connection.

Unlike many appearances driven by promotional schedules, Kim's participation was described as a personal reunion.

"It's not for a drama or a movie," a production representative noted. "It's meaningful because of their history."

Kim Woo Bin, known for his roles in dramas like Uncontrollably Fond and Our Blues, has previously spoken about his gratitude toward the mentors in his life, but this is the first time he has publicly acknowledged Hong's role in his entry into acting.

The episode has garnered strong online attention and praise from fans who appreciated the actor's sincerity and Hong's continued influence in the entertainment industry.