Many fans have long admired Yoo Yeon-seok as a dedicated and humble actor. But recent revelations about his family have caught viewers by surprise, sparking discussions about his so-called "gold spoon" background.
Yoo, in a casual chat on YouTube last November 10, had an easygoing conversation with his co-star from "Hospital Playlist," Ahn Eun-jin.
Per KBIZoom , when the topic of family came up, Yoo elaborated: "My father completed his master's at Seoul National University and then moved to Gyeongsang Province to work as a professor at Gyeongsang National University. Later, when my older brother was preparing for college, I moved back to Seoul to pursue acting."
READ MORE: Yoo Yeon Seok Dating History: Rumored Girlfriends and Ideal Type
He had earlier hinted at his father's profession on SBS's "Whenever Possible," saying: "My father taught me how to read maps from a young age, so I'm good with scales and coordinates."
Yoo also shared about his mother and added humorously: "That doesn't mean I'm good at drawing"
Of his older brother, Yoo quipped, "Maybe a third-tier one," when asked if he was a top-tier math instructor.
Reflecting on his early years, Yoo clarified his perspective on privilege, stating, "My father was a professor at a national university, not from a wealthy business family like my drama character. When I transferred to a prestigious high school in Gangnam, my family lived apart. We stayed in an old apartment that was about 40 years old."
Despite the attention to his elite family background, Yoo's career path underlines perseverance. He made his debut in 2003 as the young version of Yoo Ji-tae's character in Oldboy while he was still studying film arts at Sejong University. Public recognition came with tvN's "Reply 1994," where he played the very beloved "Chilbong."
"It felt like I hit the jackpot after ten years of struggle," Yoo said of his early career. He added, "The most important thing in life is people," emphasizing dedication to craft over fame.
Yoo has an eclectic filmography: "Mr. Sunshine," "Hospital Playlist," "New Year Blues," and "My Heart Puppy." Various critics refer to him as "an actor with limitless range and unwavering sincerity."
These days, Yoo reveals himself to his audience through YouTube, where he shares very personal aspects of his life. According to Daum, Yoo's case is an example of how success should be acquired through endeavor and passion—not from a more privileged background.
