Jo Hye-ryun: Kim Hye-soo even bought me bras unavailable in Korea

Actress Kim Hye-soo's extraordinary affection for her juniors has been revealed once again. This time, rather than a grand act of charity, it was an unexpected anecdote involving a gift of lingerie. Jo Hye-ryun recalled that Kim Hye-soo even personally sourced bras that were difficult to find in Korea, noting that the actress "always gives."

On the 8th, the 32nd episode of the "Shin-Yeoseong" series was released on the YouTube channel Rolling Thunder. During the broadcast, 2AM's Jo Kwon was discussing his connection with Kim, prompting Jo Hye-ryun to naturally share another heartwarming story about the actress.

Jo Kwon revealed that after forming a bond with Kim through the 2013 KBS drama "The Queen of Office," she has consistently attended and supported his musical performances. In particular, he recalled that when he appeared in the musical "Priscilla," Kim visited the theater several times and offered him direct praise after the shows.

Listening to the stories, Jo Hye-ryun also remarked, "Hye-soo is loyal," before revealing an old anecdote involving the actress. Jo mentioned that during her time appearing on variety shows such as "Jjak" and "Ul-eomma," Kim Hye-soo gifted her several bras.

The nature of the gifts was quite unusual for the time. According to Jo, Kim provided front-hook bras that were sold in the United States. Since most products available in Korea at the time used a back-hook design, it was a very special gift for Jo.

"The size fit perfectly," Jo said, though she added with a laugh, "though I was pushed around a little bit," drawing laughter from the audience. Rather than just being about expensive items, the story highlights Kim's meticulous nature in remembering a colleague's specific needs and sourcing items that were hard to find domestically.

While Kim and Jo operate in different fields as an actress and a comedian, they are considered an unexpected but long-standing friendship in the entertainment industry. Jo has previously shared that Kim consistently looks after her by sending healthy food and other thoughtful items.

This anecdote draws even more attention because it aligns with recent testimonies from Jo Kwon. Jo Kwon revealed that Kim provided significant help during a difficult period when his parents were battling illnesses. At the time, his mother underwent toe amputation due to melanoma, and his father underwent multiple surgeries for rectal cancer. Jo Kwon shared that he went through a difficult time both financially and psychologically as he balanced military service with his family's health struggles.

Jo Kwon recalled that knowing his difficult circumstances, Kim expressed her wish for him to "just stay healthy and finish his military service safely," providing substantial help during that time. This testimony shows that Kim does not stop at sending supportive messages as a famous senior; she steps in to provide actual help when her juniors are in need.

Kim's love for her juniors has been well-documented in the past. Jo Kwon previously shared an anecdote about Kim gifting him high heels after learning his personal taste, and she is frequently seen supporting the stages of her juniors. Recently, entertainer Ha Ji-young also revealed that she had received long-term support for film and music lecture fees from Kim.

The common thread in these instances is not merely the simple act of a celebrity helping a junior. Throughout her long career, Kim appears to maintain relationships by remembering the tastes and circumstances of her colleagues and taking direct action when they are needed.

Born in 1968, Kim debuted in the 1986 film "Kambo" and has since remained at the center of Korean popular culture, moving seamlessly between films, dramas, and variety shows. She has maintained a powerful presence in works such as "Tazza," "The Thieves," "Coin Locker Girl," and "Juvenile Justice," while serving as a mentor and colleague to junior actors and entertainers.

Analysts suggest that the reason Kim's heartwarming stories are repeatedly told is that her stardom is not based on fame alone. While relationships between long-term stars and juniors often become strictly hierarchical, Kim's actions—as evidenced by multiple testimonies—show that she recognizes and supports the individuality and professional domains of those with less experience.

Jo Hye-ryun's bra anecdote, therefore, carries more meaning than just a humorous trip down memory lane. Ultimately, caring for others begins not with grand gestures, but with remembering exactly what they need.

This is why Kim Hye-soo's name continues to be associated with such heartwarming stories even after decades at the top of the industry. As much as her brilliant career, it may be these small, private acts of consideration performed off-stage that remain in the memories of those around her.