Behind their strong, secure personas on-screen are real men who aren't afraid to voice out their personal thoughts and feelings about mental health

While the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a spike in mental health issues, it’s important to note that these struggles have been faced by many individuals way before it struck. Even some of our favorite Korean actors have gotten real about their struggles with mental health—a brave move that has raised awareness of these battles, changed how others see it, and encouraged them to check in on their loved ones from time to time.

Here are few of them:-
1. Park Seo-Joon

In an interview with T, The New York Times Style Magazine: Singapore, Park Seo Joon talked about how he looks after his mental health as he stays in the limelight. He always tries his best to open up about his worries and problems to others in an effort to make them more manageable. “In Korea, there is a saying that the more you share your concerns, the lighter they become. I do agree with that saying,” he said.

2. Jang Geun-Suk

Due to his bipolar disorder, Jang Geun-Suk had to go for an alternative military service as a public service worker at the Seoul Metropolitan Fire and Disaster Headquarters. His condition was placed under Class 4, which exempted him from being an active duty soldier. Prior to his service, he wrote to his fans, “Let’s say goodbye to each other just for a moment. I want to make good use of two years—I have never taken a rest for 27 years since my debut.” He was formally discharged last May 29 and appeared on a radio show earlier this month to talk about what’s in store for him as an actor.