Ko Jun Responds to Backlash Over His YouTube Launch: 'It's a Waste for Me'?

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Actor Ko Jun, celebrated for his work in both film and television, has taken on a new role behind the camera with the launch of his YouTube channel "Peeping," which he calls a "self-sustaining platform for actors."

Ko Jun
Ko Jun Reddit

While the name suggests peering into the world, Ko says the channel is about solidarity rather than curiosity.

In an interview recently, he introduced himself as "a person who graduated from a film department and loves movies deeply," recounting personal anecdotes and his own acting philosophy.

Ko once operated an acting academy with over 150 students, finding and guiding budding actors.

Disputes during his absence on filming projects eventually led to the school's closure, but now, through YouTube, he has brought actors together again in a virtual space to showcase their talents.

"People told me to stop, to mind my own business," Ko said. "But I think I'm destined to help others. I just can't walk away."

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Ko credited director Kang Hyung-chul of Tazza: The Hidden Card as a turning point in his career, recalling how he auditioned five times before winning a role that gained him recognition.

Though Peeping only launched four months ago, it averages more than 10,000 views per video and has received product placement offers.

"It's still closer to charity work," Ko joked. "But I'm grateful people see the channel positively."

Defining actors as "emotional representatives," Ko said each role demands understanding a character's inner life, often shaped by trauma.

His preparation includes shadowing real professionals, such as police officers, to capture authentic mannerisms.

Ko's passion for helping others traces back to his youth, when he once dreamed of becoming a priest.

Although he left that path, he said the desire to have a positive influence remains central to his work. "If I lose that influence, I'll quit tomorrow. Acting is just a tool, not the goal," he said.

Looking ahead, Ko plans to use Peeping to discover not only actors but also new directors and writers, prioritizing underappreciated talent over established stars.

"Some people say it's a waste for me, that I should stop immediately," he said. "But I believe you should take any stage you can. I still dream of being a movie actor, but if the work is good, I'll do it anywhere."

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