Han So Hee has captivated audiences worldwide with her compelling performances in K-dramas like World of the Married, Nevertheless, and My Name, and even her appearance in Jungkook’s “Seven” music video. As her star continues to ascend, pre-debut photos of the actress have resurfaced, sparking discussions about her previously unseen edgy aesthetic, most notably, her tattoos. These images offer a glimpse into Han So Hee’s life before fame and reveal a bold side that contrasts with some of her on-screen roles.
Han So Hee has showcased incredible range, portraying characters from innocent and refined to fiercely independent and tough. However, unearthed photos from her pre-debut days paint a picture of a young woman with a strikingly different style – one that embraced a darker, more rebellious vibe.
Han So Hee in “Nevertheless”
Leaked from old blog posts and Instagram accounts, these pre-fame snapshots showcase Han So Hee with an unexpected edgy and alluring aura. These images quickly circulated online, surprising many who were accustomed to her polished celebrity image.
Pre-debut Han So Hee showcasing a casual look
Han So Hee in pre-debut era with bold makeup
Some of the most talked-about photos feature Han So Hee smoking, a detail that deviated from the often carefully curated image of Korean actresses.
Han So Hee smoking cigarette in pre-debut photo
Han So Hee in pre-debut days with a cigarette
However, it was the glimpses of tattoos adorning her arms that truly captured widespread attention. These weren’t subtle or easily missed; they were prominent and contributed significantly to her edgy pre-debut persona. Han So Hee’s tattoos became a central point of discussion as fans and the public alike were fascinated by this unexpected facet of the rising star.
Han So Hee pre-debut photo showcasing arm tattoos
Han So Hee displaying tattoos on her arm in a past photo
The online frenzy culminated when a fan shared Han So Hee’s pre-debut photos on Twitter. The tweet rapidly went viral, amassing nearly 80,000 likes in a little over 24 hours, demonstrating the intense public interest in her past image.
Unlike many celebrities who often come from privileged backgrounds, Han So Hee’s journey to stardom was marked by hardship. After pursuing art, she moved to Seoul at 20 with limited funds, approximately $265 USD. For over a year, she worked in bars to survive, facing financial struggles before her career began to take off with an appearance in SHINee’s “Tell Me What To Do” music video in 2016.
Reflecting on her past, these raw and unfiltered photos resonate with the realities of her journey. However, in South Korean society, where smoking and tattoos can carry negative connotations, particularly for women in the public eye, the photos initially drew some critical reactions. This occurred while Han So Hee was gaining prominence in The World of the Married, placing her personal life under intense scrutiny. Netizens reacted with shock and disbelief, questioning how she could face the public with such a past.
Han So Hee in pre-debut photo with strong gaze
Remarkably, Han So Hee remained unfazed by the criticism, a response that further endeared her to many. When questioned by the media about the controversy, she simply stated, “I don’t have any thoughts about it. I was me back then, and I’m me now too.” This confident and unapologetic stance resonated deeply with fans and solidified her image as someone authentic and true to herself.
Han So Hee in a past Instagram photo
Han So Hee further elaborated that her core values and perspectives have remained consistent over time. She even found the notion of it being “the past” somewhat amusing, noting the photos were taken only a few years prior. Adding to the conversation, a friend defended Han So Hee, pointing out the double standards in Korean society where such behavior might be accepted from male actors but judged harshly when exhibited by a female actress.
Han So Hee in a stylish pre-debut photo
Han So Hee herself articulated the pressures of maintaining a public image, stating, “As you work, don’t you start to develop some restrictions in your normal life? As a result, I think I am now complete in my image.”
Despite some negative reactions, Han So Hee acknowledged the strong support she received, especially from her female fans, who admired her pre-debut persona. She expressed gratitude for this positive reception, recognizing that her authenticity resonated with a significant portion of her fanbase. Han So Hee’s willingness to embrace her past, tattoos and all, has only amplified her appeal, proving that staying true to oneself can be the most powerful image of all.
Source: SPOTV
