Comedian Shin Dong-yup Takes on 1st Lead Role in Upcoming TV Series

Comedian Shin Dong-yup is set to take his first lead role in a TV series. Shin, who made his debut as a comedian in 1991, has appeared in sitcoms including a number of comedy shows, but it will be his first time to take on a serious dramatic role.

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In the upcoming TV series, "Big Forest", which is set to start airing next week on cable channel tvN, he plays a former top TV host who has fallen on hard times and is on the run from a loan shark.

Shin said the role reminded him of his real-life failures of running his own businesses and subsequently having a hard time after going bankrupt. "I think I was able to relate to the role, as I had a similar experience", Shin said.

The comedian, who is known for his witty skits on numerous TV shows and entertainment programs, said he wants to show a different side of himself in the series. "It was a big challenge for me to appear in a TV series which is something serious and not funny", he said, adding that he accepted the challenge out of his passion for acting.

"I majored in theatrical arts in college and always have a thirst for acting. Filming episodes was never easy, but it seemed to pay off after all as it gave me a sense of happiness and satisfaction that I can't get from other shows", he said.