Kim Shin-rok on 'Tastefully Yours': A Netflix Q&A

Actress Kim Shin-rok opens up about her role in the Netflix drama Tastefully Yours, reflecting on its finale, her on-screen chemistry, and the unique experience of portraying a character deeply rooted in love and desire.

The Netflix series Tastefully Yours, which recently wrapped up its run, earned praise for its heartfelt storytelling and character-driven narrative. Kim Shin-rok, known for her versatility, portrayed Jin Myung-sook—a quiet yet passionate force in the culinary world. Through her agency, Just Entertainment, she shared her thoughts in a Q&A interview.



Q&A with Kim Shin-rok.

Q&A with Kim Shin-rok

Q: How do you feel now that Tastefully Yours has ended?

It’s bittersweet to say goodbye to a story and characters I’ve come to love. I hope the series offered warmth and comfort to those who watched it.

Q: What led you to take part in Tastefully Yours?

I was drawn in after reading the first four episodes, which I received through the production company. Director Park Dan-hee wanted to showcase a more endearing side of me, which felt refreshing. The character was initially written as a woman in her 50s, but it was revised to her 40s to fit me better.

Q: You played very different characters in Undercover High School and Tastefully Yours, and the filming periods overlapped. Was that difficult?

Surprisingly, switching between two contrasting roles created a kind of synergy—like alternating between sweet and savory. Going from the intensity of Seo Myung-joo to the grounded energy of Jin Myung-sook kept the process dynamic and engaging. The contrast actually gave me space to breathe.

Q: Your physicality in Undercover High School was often noted, especially in emotional or confrontational scenes. How did you approach that role?

Seo Myung-joo was a character who disrupted every scene she entered. I focused more on physical expression than psychological depth, constantly thinking about posture, gestures, and how her body conveyed meaning.



Q: Jin Myung-sook feels like a departure for you. What attracted you to her, and how did you approach the role?

Unlike Seo Myung-joo, Myung-sook doesn’t dominate scenes. She listens, observes, and adds nuance. Working alongside Kang Ha-neul, Go Min-si, and Yoo Soo-bin brought the character to life. A friend once described her as fun, feisty, tender, and even a little sexy—which made me smile. She’s a beautifully complex character.

Q: Did you have a personal interpretation of her motivations?

I believe every living being has desires, and storytelling often stems from those entanglements. Even if Myung-sook’s growth isn’t overtly shown, I tried to always hold onto the idea that her life is valuable and meaningful to her.

Q: Her look was quite distinct—not your typical soup shop attire. How did her fashion come together?

The director and staff had a clear vision. Through costume fittings and hair and makeup tests, we shaped her style. The curly hair and layered clothes helped give Myung-sook her warm, approachable vibe.



Q: The dynamic between Myung-sook and Chun-seung stood out. How was it working with Yoo Soo-bin?
Their relationship wasn’t originally romantic—it was added and removed during script development. In the end, we portrayed a more ambiguous, but still meaningful bond. I appreciated having a scene partner like Yoo Soo-bin, who brought sincerity and trust to every interaction.

Q: The series touched on themes of fandom. Do you consider yourself a fan of anything?
Definitely! There are so many great dramas out right now that I’m constantly watching. I’m also really looking forward to ENA’s upcoming series Salon de Holmes. The concept sounds like a lot of fun.

Q: Do you have a favorite moment from the series?
Filming the food truck event in Episode 4 stands out. We shot on the lawn in front of Jeonju City Hall for about a week, and the atmosphere was just perfect. Seeing that vibrant scene later on screen was really heartwarming.

Q: Any message for viewers, and what’s next for you?
I’ll be performing in a play from late August through early November, and I’m looking forward to spending time in the rehearsal room. I hope to show new sides of myself in upcoming plays, films, and dramas. Thank you for watching, and I wish everyone happiness and good health.

Kim Shin-rok is also set to appear in the upcoming feature film Colony, among other future projects.

Photo = Just Entertainment, 'Tastefully Yours'

This article was originally published in Korean on Xportsnews and was translated into English using AI.

by Jeong Mingyeong