Chae Seo An, When Life Gives You Tangerines Actress, Reveals She Took on Seven Part-Time Jobs After Filming

Actress Chae Seo An captured hearts with her role in the hit Netflix drama When Life Gives You Tangerines. Despite her success, she faced tough times after filming, taking on seven part-time jobs to support herself. In a recent interview, she shared her inspiring journey of balancing uncertainty with determination. Her story highlights the challenges many actors face behind the scenes. Fans continue to praise her grounded performance and real-life perseverance.

The Netflix drama When Life Gives You Tangerines became a global sensation in 2025. Released from March 7 to March 28, it stars IU and Park Bo-gum as Ae-sun and Gwan-sik, a couple navigating love and hardship on Jeju Island. The series, directed by Kim Won-seok, won Best Drama at the 61st Baeksang Arts Awards. Chae Seo An played Yeong Ran, a warm-hearted character known as ‘Hak’s wife.’ Her role, though small, left a lasting impact on viewers.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by 채서안 (@serenity__an)

Chae’s journey to When Life Gives You Tangerines was not easy. She auditioned during a period of personal uncertainty. Landing the role felt like a dream for the young actress.

“I was in a really uncertain place when I got the audition call. When I heard I was cast, it felt like a dream.”
— Chae Seo An, Harper’s Bazaar Korea

Filming for the drama wrapped in 2023. Afterward, Chae faced a career crossroads. She parted ways with her management agency, leaving her without immediate acting projects. To make ends meet, she turned to part-time work. A friend suggested factory jobs, and Chae took on the challenge.

Her work was diverse and demanding. She started at a rice cake factory but found it physically taxing. She then moved to a cookie factory, where oily conditions affected her skin.

“The manufacturing area was so oily that it affected my skin.”
— Chae Seo An, Harper’s Bazaar Korea

Chae also worked in electronics factories and research labs. She assembled card terminals, door locks, and CCTV components. Until April 2025, she was part of a CCTV quality control team. These jobs were far from the glamour of acting but kept her grounded.

Despite these struggles, Chae’s performance in When Life Gives You Tangerines continued to win praise. She played Yeong Ran, married to Park Sung Gil, portrayed by Choi Dae Hoon. Fans loved her quiet strength and vulnerability. They nicknamed her character ‘Hak Ssi’s wife,’ a testament to her memorable presence.

“I didn’t expect so much love. My family was overjoyed. It still doesn’t feel real, but my heart is full.”
— Chae Seo An, Harper’s Bazaar Korea

Born in 1996, Chae Seo An debuted in 2021 with Police University. She has since built a varied career with roles in The Witch: Part 2, Moonshine, Pale Moon, and Hierarchy. Her work spans mainstream dramas and independent films like The Fugitive, filmed after Tangerines. Her versatility has earned her growing recognition.

The actress’s humility shines through her story. While fans celebrated her on-screen work, she quietly took on factory jobs to stay afloat. Her determination mirrors the resilience of her character Yeong Ran. Recently, Chae signed with a new agency, signaling brighter prospects.

When Life Gives You Tangerines is celebrated for its emotional storytelling. Set across decades, it follows Ae-sun and Gwan-sik’s love story against Jeju’s stunning backdrop. The drama’s success stems from its strong cast and heartfelt script by Lim Sang-choon. Supporting actors like Chae added depth to the narrative.

Chae’s co-star IU praised her talent, a highlight of her journey. This encouragement, along with fan support, has fueled her drive to continue acting. Her story resonates with many, showing the reality behind the entertainment industry’s glamour.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by 채서안 (@serenity__an)

Social media buzzed with admiration for Chae’s perseverance. Fans shared her interview clips, praising her hard work. One netizen wrote, “Chae Seo An’s story is so inspiring. She’s a true fighter!” Another commented, “Her role was small, but she stole the show. Can’t wait to see more!”

“Chae Seo An’s story is so inspiring. She’s a true fighter!”
“Her role was small, but she stole the show. Can’t wait to see more!”
— Netizen reactions on X

Chae’s experience reflects the challenges of being a rising actor. The entertainment industry can be unpredictable, even for those in hit projects. Her willingness to take on manual labor shows her strength and adaptability. It also sheds light on the less glamorous side of fame.

The actress remains grateful for her Tangerines role. It brought her closer to her family, who were thrilled by her success. Their joy motivates her to keep pursuing her dreams. Chae’s story is a reminder of the hard work behind every screen performance.

Also Read: Veteran Actress Oh Min Ae Reveals Sacrificing All Assets, Finding Peace in Temple Life, and Overcoming Career Struggles on Radio Star After Playing Park Bo Gum’s Mother in When Life Gives You Tangerines

As When Life Gives You Tangerines continues to stream on Netflix, Chae Seo An’s journey adds a new layer to its legacy. Her performance and off-screen resilience have made her a fan favorite. With a new agency and growing fame, she is ready for her next chapter. Fans eagerly await her future projects, confident in her talent.

Credits: Harper Bazaar Korea

---